From Deseret News archives:
'A Colbert Christmas' rocks Comedy Central
Unless, of course, you see something weirder than Elvis Costello getting eaten by a bear. Or Willie Nelson playing the fourth wise man carrying a rather unusual gift to the baby Jesus. (A certain plant Nelson has become clearly associated with.)
"A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All" (Sunday, 11 p.m., Comedy Central) mocks TV holiday specials in general and Colbert himself in particular. It's sort of PG-rated comedy that might offend those looking to be offended, but it's also nothing short of hilarious.
It's almost like "Pee-wee's Playhouse" at Christmastime with Colbert in the role of Pee-wee Herman. With a little bit of the old Andy Williams and Perry Como variety hours thrown in.
Colbert is still in character as the right-wing political pundit he portrays on "The Colbert Report," but he's stepped outside his studio for a (faux) cabin in upstate New York. He's headed for New York City to perform with Elvis Costello, but he's trapped by a bear.
(OK, it's a guy in a bear suit, which fits in perfectly with the show's cheesy charm.)
Unlike "The Colbert Report," there's not a lot in the way of political satire here. But there is room to mock Bill O'Reilly's ranting about the supposed war on Christmas, complete with a song by guest star Toby Keith — "Have I Got a Present for You."
It's one of several musical performances, including Nelson singing about, um, cannabis "Little Dealer Boy" (a duet with Colbert); Jon Stewart dropping by to sing "Can I Interest You in Hanukkah?" (another duet with Colbert); and John Legend and Colbert singing "Nutmeg."
When Colbert prays for help, he has some trouble getting through to heaven, as explained by an angel (singer/songwriter Feist) in "Please Be Patient." But, eventually, Colbert and Costello sing "There Are Much Worse Things to Believe In." And then Colbert, Costello, Feist, Keith, Legend and Nelson all join in on "(What's So Funny 'bout) Peace, Love And Understanding."
The original lyrics were written by David Javerbaum, executive producer of "The Daily Show," and Tony-nominated composer Adam Schlesinger ("Cry Baby"). Nick Lowe wrote "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding."
It's all utterly ridiculous, of course. One big goof.
Other than, perhaps, the commentary on that alleged war on Christmas, if you take any of this even one bit seriously you're totally missing the point.
And if you want your very own copy of "A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All," it's being released on DVD on Tuesday with bonus features that include a book-burning yule log, video advent calendar and alternate endings. And Comedy Central Records will release the songs on iTunes on Tuesday as well.
A portion of the proceeds will go to the charity Feeding America ... which is the sort of thing Christmas is supposed to be all about, isn't it?
E-mail: pierce@desnews.com
