What to stream this week: A pretty, pretty good Larry David comedy, plus five more picks

This week brings a mix of familiar faces and fresh content to streaming platforms, starting with a new comedy from Larry David, the co-creator of *Seinfeld* and star of *Curb Your Enthusiasm*. His latest project, *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness*, has returned to HBO Max after a brief hiatus following the conclusion of *Curb Your Enthusiasm* two years ago. This time around, David is taking viewers on a satirical journey through American history, inserting himself into pivotal moments with his signature brand of pettiness and observational humor.

The seven-episode series features Larry David causing comedic havoc in various eras of U.S. history, from the Great Depression to the moon landing. In one scene, he finds himself in a soup kitchen during the Depression, where his usual complaints about minor inconveniences take center stage. Another episode places him alongside Rosa Parks on a bus, highlighting how small grievances can have larger implications. The show's format mirrors *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, relying heavily on improvisation and real-time interactions among its ensemble cast.

The production team includes many recognizable names from David’s previous projects, such as Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, Jane Krakowski, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The series kicks off with a segment featuring former President Barack Obama, who introduces the show as part of a celebration of America's 250th anniversary. Both Obama and his former First Lady, Michelle Obama, are listed as co-producers under their production company, Higher Ground. Their involvement adds a layer of prestige and political weight to the project, which is evident in the opening monologue where Obama acknowledges the imperfections of American society.

Despite the high-profile guest appearances, the show’s strength lies in its ability to blend historical references with everyday absurdities. Each episode contains multiple sketches, often focusing on trivial conflicts that escalate into significant historical events. For instance, a misplaced scarf leads to a breakthrough in space exploration, while a dispute over a borrowed nickel results in a critical moment in presidential history. These humorous juxtapositions highlight the chaotic nature of human interaction throughout history.

However, not all sketches resonate equally. Some segments targeting contemporary figures, particularly those associated with the current administration, fall flat due to their directness and lack of subtlety. Sketches involving President Trump and other political figures tend to rely on simplistic punchlines rather than nuanced commentary, making them less impactful compared to the rest of the series. Nevertheless, these instances are relatively rare and do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the show.

In addition to *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness*, viewers can look forward to the second season of *Sugar* on Apple TV+. Starring Colin Farrell as a private investigator named John Sugar, the show continues to explore the complexities of its protagonist, who turns out to be an extraterrestrial being observing human behavior. The first season introduced this twist, setting the stage for further developments in the character's storyline. While the show has been divisive among audiences, its bold narrative choices and visual style continue to intrigue fans of unconventional storytelling.

Other notable additions to the streaming lineup include a prequel to an Italian television hit, offering a darker and more violent take on its origins, and a zombie film starring Daisy Ridley, set in Australia. These offerings provide a diverse range of genres and styles, ensuring that there is something for every viewer looking for entertainment this week. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, the return of Larry David and the continuation of *Sugar* signal a commitment to both established talent and innovative narratives.