From “Mr. Show” to “Nobody”: A Guide to the Best of Bob Odenkirk’s Work

Liz R.
Written By Liz R.

Liz R. is a writer and educator in Indiana with an MFA in Creative Writing. She has been writing and teaching about movies, TV, and books for years. You can find her on TikTok

The trailer for Bob Odenkirk’s new show just dropped!

In the trailer for Lucky Hank, Odenkirk plays an English professor whose life is not going particularly well. He is in conflict with his students, family, and colleagues, and at one point, a goose.

AMC describes the show like this: “An English department chairman at an underfunded college, Professor Hank Devereaux toes the line between midlife crisis and full-blown meltdown, navigating the offbeat chaos in his personal and professional life – oddly proving tantrums get better with age.

I’ll watch Bob Odenkirk in literally anything, so maybe I’m not the best judge of this, but I am excited for the show! As a former English professor at a small university, I’m always up for a show that explores (and skewers) the world of higher education.

It gives The Chair vibes, and I loved The Chair. The show will be released on March 19, 2023 on AMC.

Watching Bob Odenkirk is pretty much always a great experience, even if the show or movie he’s in isn’t the best thing ever. Here are the 5 things you should seek out if you’re a newly minted Odenkirk fan!

Better Call Saul

better call saul
Image Credit: High Bridge Productions, Crystal Diner Productions, Sony Pictures Television.

I’ve talked to quite a few people who view the Breaking Bad spinoff Better Call Saul as better the original source material. Saul Goodman (aka Jimmy McGill) is the character that introduced millions of viewers to Odenkirk and his comedic and dramatic skills.

If you haven’t watched this essential Odenkirk show, you can find it on Netflix.

Nobody

Nobody
Image Credit: 87North, Dentsu.

Full disclosure: I didn’t absolutely love Nobody, because the ending felt a bit contrived to me. At the same time, I’m still really glad I watched it! It was really fun to see Odenkirk in his first (but hopefully not last) action role. Odenkirk managed to perfect the combination of being both pitiable and badass in this one.

Comedy, Comedy, Comedy, Drama: A Memoir

Comedy, Comedy, Comedy, Drama A Memoir
Image Credit: Random House.

Odenkirk published his memoir Comedy, Comedy, Comedy, Drama in 2022. The book has earned generally positive reviews from readers, especially those who enjoyed the behind-the-scenes stories about how Odenkirk’s career has developed over time. The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to call themselves a true Odenkirk fan.

The Post

The Post
Image Credit: Twentieth Century Fox, Dreamworks Pictures, Reliance Entertainment.

In another dramatic turn, Odenkirk plays Bob Bagdikian, an assistant editor of The Washington Post leading up to the publication of the Pentagon Papers in 1971. The Post was directed by Steven Spielberg and was released in 2017 to excellent reviews. Even though Bagdikian is one of the supporting characters, Odenkirk’s performance is definitely one of the movie’s many bright spots.

Mr. Show with Bob and David

Mr. Show with Bob and David
Image Credit: Brillstein-Grey Entertainment, Dakota Pictures.

This is my absolute favorite piece of Bob Odenkirk media! Mr. Show with Bob and David aired on HBO from 1995-1998 and is one of the funniest sketch comedy shows I’ve ever watched. Odenkirk leads the show with comedian and co-writer David Cross. While some sketches may not land perfectly, there are so many great moments that it stays relevant and funny. Plus, you get to see great guest stars and supporting cast members like Jack Black, Paul F. Tompkins, Sarah Silverman, and Karen Kilgariff.

The 20 Best Crime Movies of All Time: Criminal Masterpieces That Will Steal Your Heart and Leave You Begging for More

Shawshank Redemption Warner Bros
Image Credit: Warner Brothers Pictures.

Calling all crime flick lovers! Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled journey into the world of heists, mobsters, and high-stakes action. With countless crime films to choose from, I’ve curated a list of the top 20 that will leave you captivated and craving more. From the classics to hidden gems, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat. Grab your popcorn and let’s embark on a thrilling adventure through the criminal underworld together!

The 20 Best War Movies of All Time: Epic Tales of Bravery and Sacrifice

Inglourious Basterds Universal Studios
Image Credit: Universal Studios.

Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as we delve into the captivating world of war movies. From tales of bravery to heartbreaking sacrifices, these films will leave you both drained and inspired. We’re ready to present you with the 20 greatest war movies that have stood the test of time. Grab your popcorn and maybe some tissues and get ready to experience these powerful stories.

The 20 Best Thriller Movies Ever Made: Heart-Stopping Must-See Films

Fight Club MSN 20th Century
Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

Attention, movie buffs! Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled, pulse-pounding cinematic ride! Brace yourself for the top 20 thrillers of all time, featuring unforgettable moments like Batman vs. the Joker, the captivating non-linear storytelling of Pulp Fiction, and the iconic shower scene from Psycho. Buckle up, grab your popcorn, and prepare for a suspenseful journey through movie history. Let the thrills begin!