Detroiters: Behind The Scenes Of The Mirror Depot Commercial & More!
Can a city, once a symbol of industrial might, find humor in its own reflection? Detroiters, the American sitcom, masterfully proves that the answer is a resounding yes, transforming the Motor City's quirks and characters into comedic gold.
The genesis of a commercial, particularly one for "Lindsay's Mirror Depot, Detroit's one stop for all your mirror needs," always presents its own unique set of hurdles. For the show's protagonists, Sam, Tim, and their ever-present employee, Lea, this challenge is amplified by the show's core ethos: parodying the very fabric of metro Detroit commercials. The premise is simple: a commercial for Lindsay's Mirror Depot, comprised of a series of quick cuts showcasing the store's vast array of mirrors, with Sam, Tim (or both), and occasionally Lea, making their reflections in these mirrored surfaces. But the execution, informed by a deep understanding of Detroit culture, is what makes it truly remarkable.
One of the show's greatest strengths lies in its uncanny ability to parody the tropes and eccentricities of real-life Detroit commercials. Whether it's the distinct cadence of local announcers, the sometimes-questionable production values, or the local businesses that have become fixtures of the community, "Detroiters" mines this fertile ground with precision and affection. The show's ability to capture the essence of Detroit, its people, and its spirit, is what elevates it beyond mere parody.
Take, for instance, the show's clear inspiration from the original Dittrich Furs commercial, a classic of its kind. Such references offer a warm dose of nostalgia for anyone who grew up in Detroit during the 80s or is familiar with the local advertising landscape. This sense of familiarity and recognition is vital to the show's charm and appeal. "Detroiters" doesn't just present jokes; it crafts a shared experience for those who understand the context.
The show itself is a creation of some of the most talented individuals, the sitcom Detroiters, a collaborative effort by Sam Richardson, Tim Robinson, Zach Kanin, and Joe Kelly. Filmed on location in the city itself, the show features Michigan natives Richardson and Robinson in the starring roles. This authentic connection to Detroit is undeniable and it makes itself apparent in the storytelling and the series' visual presentation.
The series premiered on Comedy Central on February 7, 2017 and ran for two seasons. It's a testament to the show's appeal that it could create a loyal following in such a short time. Although its run was cut short, with Comedy Central canceling it on December 11, 2018, the impact of "Detroiters" on its audience has been substantial.
The cast, which includes Christopher Powell and Julie Sifuentes Etheridge, alongside Richardson and Robinson, delivered memorable performances. The guest appearances by talents such as Jason Sudeikis and Steve Higgins, only add to the show's allure.
One of the recurring themes is the impact of change in Detroit, particularly since the relocation of Quicken Loans' headquarters downtown in 2010. The show's narrative frequently grapples with the city's evolution, creating a layered portrayal of Detroit that is both humorous and poignant.
In one storyline, the arrival of a new tech company in the same building as Tim and Sam's office disrupts their daily routine. This mirrors the rapid changes occurring in Detroit as new industries and businesses reshape the city. Another narrative sees Sam developing a crush on a woman from the new company, leading to lies and complications. Concurrently, Lea struggles with editing an ad for the local mirror store, all adding layers of complexity and relatability to the plotlines.
The show's settings, ranging from the local mirror store to the fictional ad agency, are deeply rooted in Detroit's landscape. The show does not shy away from highlighting the city's recognizable locations; even including addresses like 3922 Fenkell Street, Detroit, Michigan, 48238, United States. These authentic touches add to the feeling that the show is a genuine representation of Detroit life.
The humor found in the show stems from many sources: The duo's pitch to a wig company is often met with comical setbacks. Sam and Tim find themselves in a comedic predicament when seeking legal counsel to help Sheila with a DUI. Furthermore, Sam and Tim's venture to an impound lot to buy a used van adds more hilarious circumstances to their day. In addition, Sam and Tim are presented with a peculiar client, a brilliant inventor who has designed a car that can, shall we say, excrete. Tims mom, in a fit of maternal concern, insists that he gives his brother a job at Cramblin Duvet. The show also highlights continuity errors, such as the one with the boy holding a hi.
Here is a table representing key information about the creators, Sam Richardson and Tim Robinson, and their work on "Detroiters":
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sam Richardson |
| Birth Date | 12 January 1984 |
| Birth Place | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Education | Oak Park High School |
| Known For | "Detroiters", "Veep", "Ted Lasso", "The Afterparty" |
| Career Highlights | Co-creator, writer, and star of "Detroiters"; recurring roles in "Veep" and "Ted Lasso"; lead role in "The Afterparty" |
| Other Projects | Appeared in commercials such as Totinos pizza rolls. |
| Full Name | Tim Robinson |
| Birth Date | May 16, 1981 |
| Birth Place | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Education | School of the Art Institute of Chicago |
| Known For | "Detroiters", "I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson" |
| Career Highlights | Co-creator, writer, and star of "Detroiters"; creator and star of "I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson"; writer for "Saturday Night Live" |
| Other Projects | Appeared in commercials such as Totinos pizza rolls. |
For more information, you can consult the following reliable resource: IMDB.
The show's authenticity is further enhanced by the fact that it was filmed on location in Detroit, which gives the series a distinctive visual style. From the grit of the city streets to the charm of its local businesses, "Detroiters" offers viewers a genuine representation of Detroit life. A 1976 commercial for the Detroit Institute of Arts also lends historical significance to the show.
The collaboration between Richardson and Robinson extends beyond "Detroiters." They have been seen together in commercials, demonstrating their capacity to connect with audiences. The success of "Detroiters" shows how vital friendship and collaboration are. The premise: the best ad agency in Detroit, run by lifelong friends Tim and Sam, who must convince everyone else.
As an added bonus, the show features trailers for viewers to learn more. The show's success can be measured by the numerous platforms that stream the show, including Paramount+.
In conclusion, "Detroiters" is not just a sitcom; it's a love letter to a city. It's a testament to the power of local storytelling, and a shining example of how humor can be found in the most unexpected places. The show remains a cherished example of what local comedy can be. The series continues to be available for viewing on various platforms, ensuring that the laughter and nostalgia of "Detroiters" live on. The show is a prime example of how local culture can be brought to life on screen.
