After a couple of difficult years, Gatsby has made Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier), once again, a Hollywood superstar.  But, things have changed in the “frat house” atmosphere of the Beverly Hills mansion that he and his three buddies occupy.  Indeed, everyone, with the possible exception of Vince, seems to be maturing and trying to become his own person.

Even at Vince’s high-powered agency, Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) is facing rebellion, as his longtime assistant, Lloyd (Rex Lee) is insisting on a promotion and his new associate, Andrew Klein (Gary Cole) is having an extra-marital affair with another agent.

CRITIQUE

I really enjoy this popular comedy series, yet my feelings about it are mixed.

The writing, direction and performances are all first-rate, and the portrait that the show presents of today’s Hollywood is right on the mark, even though it leans a bit toward satire.  Often, I find myself laughing-out-loud.

I also enjoy the celebrity guest stars, particularly those who play and poke fun at themselves (e.g. Jeffrey Tambor, Matt Dillon).

What bothers me about the series is the four leading characters, particularly superstar Vince Chase, played by Adrian Grenier.  I have absolutely no sympathy for this character who, virtually single-handedly last season, sent his once promising career into the dumpster.

Now, after his comeback success in Gatsby, he does not appear to be changing his free-spending ways and, although it doesn’t happen this season, I’m sure (unless he “grows up”) that it will only be a matter of time before he’s in the dumpster again. 

Vince’s often out-of-control brother, Johnny “Drama”, doesn’t seem to appreciate that he is co-starring in a hit television series, but Turtle (Jerry Ferrara) is trying to better himself by taking some college courses.

Eric (Kevin Connolly), who has always been the smartest and most sympathetic one in the group, finds himself torn between two ladies, love of his life, Sloan (Emmanuelle Chriqui) and the edgy, overly jealous, Ashley (Alexis Dziena), as he tires to better himself in the world of personal career management.

Certainly, the most unlikable character on the series is agent Ari Gold, who treats the people who work for him like s**t.  It would be nice to see somebody cold-cock this s.o.b., but he always seems to come out on top.

This sixth season of Entourage contains 12 half-hour episodes on three DVDs.

THE VIDEO

The widescreen picture is broadcast sharp.  There are no noticeable flaws.

THE AUDIO

The Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound is without problems.

THE EXTRAS

3 Audio Commentaries with cast and creators of the series

Life at the Top, a “Behind the Scenes” featurette that shows how the Gatsby premiere sequence at Grauman’s Chinese Theater was executed.

A Day at the Speedway, a short featurette that has the cast racing Ferraris at the Auto Club Speedway.

ONEXONE PSA – This apparent outtake has Matt Dillon directing Vince in what is supposed to be a public service commercial.  Very funny.

FINAL THOUGHT

Entourage remains one of the most entertaining comedies on television, cable or otherwise.