A fresh take on ‘Mr. Throwback’: A mockumentary with a twist

A unique blend of comedy and drama

Imagine a show that combines the quirky humor of a Christopher Guest film with the intense, high-stakes drama of Uncut Gems. That’s precisely what Adam Pally aims to deliver with his new series, Mr. Throwback. This mockumentary-style show follows the tumultuous life of Danny Grossman, a former basketball prodigy turned down-and-out businessman, who finds himself entangled in a web of lies and debts.

The rise and fall of Danny Grossman

Danny Grossman, once hailed as the “Jewish Jordan,” had a promising basketball career that ended abruptly due to his father’s deceit. Fast forward two decades, and Danny is now struggling with a failed marriage and mounting debts. Desperate to save his life, he heads to San Francisco to reconnect with NBA star Stephen Curry, hoping to extract $90,000 through a series of white lies.

Watch the trailer for Mr. Throwback

Stephen Curry’s role: A savvy twist

Much like Uncut Gems utilized Kevin Garnett’s real-life persona to heighten tension, Mr. Throwback cleverly incorporates Stephen Curry’s character. Known for his determination and leadership, Curry’s carefree smile and boyish charm add a unique layer to the show. Pally’s character, Danny, pushes Curry’s forgiving nature to its limits, creating a dynamic and engaging storyline.

A collaboration born from serendipity

The idea for Mr. Throwback was born after Pally and his wife appeared on a celebrity game show created by Stephen and Ayesha Curry. The chemistry between the couples was undeniable, leading to a collaboration with Unanimous Media. Pally and his team, including Happy Endings creator David Caspe, spent two years developing the series, resulting in a season that balances humor and drama.

The absurdity of deceit

Directed by David Wain, known for his work on Wet Hot American Summer, Mr. Throwback embraces an absurdist tone. Danny’s deceit snowballs into increasingly bizarre situations, reflecting a broader commentary on the nature of truth and leadership. Pally’s character embodies the idea that one can double down on lies until something else happens, a sentiment that resonates with contemporary societal observations.

A stellar supporting cast

The series also features Saturday Night Live cast member Ego Nwodim as Kimberly, a childhood friend of Steph and Danny who now works closely with Curry. Despite her character’s deep connection to basketball, Nwodim humorously admits to maintaining a blissful ignorance of the sport during filming. Her character adds depth and humor to the series, highlighting the contrast between the basketball world and Danny’s chaotic life.

Timely production and release

The production of Mr. Throwback was swift, aligning with Curry’s training for the Paris Olympics. The series premieres as Team U.S.A. enters the semifinals, capitalizing on the heightened interest in Curry. Despite the tight schedule, the show manages to incorporate timely references, adding to its contemporary appeal.

The allure of pro sports

While Curry’s appearances are limited, the series delves into the entourage economies surrounding professional sports. Danny and his ex-wife Samantha, played by Ayden Mayeri, find themselves compromising their principles to stay within the luxurious orbit of pro sports. Curry’s self-effacing performance as himself adds a layer of authenticity and humor to the show.

The humor in desperation

Pally, a diehard New York Knicks fan, relishes the opportunity to work with Curry and Caspe. The series explores the humor in desperation, highlighting the absurdity of constantly wanting more. Pally’s reflections on the nature of success and contentment add depth to the show’s comedic elements.

Potential for more

Despite Curry’s NBA commitments, Pally hints at the possibility of more Mr. Throwback episodes. The show’s offbeat humor and dynamic characters leave room for further exploration, promising more laughs and drama in future seasons.

Watch all six episodes of Mr. Throwback on Peacock starting Thursday.

Final thoughts

Mr. Throwback is a refreshing blend of comedy and drama, offering a unique take on the mockumentary genre. With a stellar cast, timely production, and a compelling storyline, the series is poised to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a fan of basketball, comedy, or intense drama, Mr. Throwback promises to deliver an engaging and entertaining experience.