Review: Kevin Hart’s “Zero F**k’s Given”
Two weeks ago, Kevin Hart released his seventh stand up special exclusively on Netlflix, with the title, “Zero F**ks Given”. Per usual with Hart’s specials, it begins with a quick pre-shot scene before the actual special begins, and ends with one as well. In fact, a lot about this special is largely par for the course for Hart’s usual output, especially his previous 3 stand-up hours. However, there is one unique aspect of this special that I’m not sure any comedian has ever done before, and that has to do with the setting. While we’re used to seeing Kevin perform in a bigger and bigger stadium each special, that obviously couldn't be the case because of the pandemic. Instead, Hart hosts this special from the comfort of his own home, in his pajamas, to a small crowd that has to be less than 50 people. Not only does this add a bit of freshness to the special, but it feels like it’s making Hart work a little harder, in a good way. When half the crowd doesn’t think a joke is funny in such a small crowd, the laughs will barely be audible, so Hart has to make sure he really lands every joke just the right way in order for the special to work. I’m pleased to say, nearly every bit here garnered big laughs, and Hart thrived a little bit outside of his ususal element.
As far as stand out bits, Hart’s stories about his young cousins sexual escapades, his brief attempt at boxing, and a meal at Jerry Seinfeld’s house. Hart sticks to his latest strategy of telling big stories with little jokes throughout, saving one big punchline for the end, and in all of these stories, the payoff is worth the wait. Even Hart’s biggest detractors would probably get a kick out of the big punchlines here. While there are some bits that didn’t quite land like these heavy-hitters, none were legitimately bad or truly weak, they just needed some polish. The rust makes sense, of course, given Hart’s lack of an ability to perform live over the past year.
As far as flaws, if this even qualifies as one, aside from the setting and the volume this is Kevin Hart as you’ve seen him before. Fans of Hart will be pleased, and those who aren’t fans won’t find much new here. Kevin not changing his style much shouldn't surprise anybody, as he doesn't need to. He’s debatedly the biggest comedian in the world for a reason, his fans love him, and they’re going to live this as well. While it’s not Hart’s best, it’s probably better than his last effort and a few of his earliest specials, and the unique setting is really neat to see in action.
7.75/10
