HBO’s How To with John Wilson has become a phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor, surrealism, and profound observations on modern life. Created by John Wilson, a 36-year-old videographer who describes himself as an “anxious New Yorker,” the show takes viewers on a journey through the mundane and the extraordinary, offering a fresh perspective on subjects like finding a public restroom and cleaning your ears.
What sets How To with John Wilson apart is its ability to transcend its initial premise and delve into deeper, more poignant territory. It combines the format of a guide to modern life with the aesthetics of a melancholic road diary, capturing lost moments and forgotten corners of America. Wilson’s quirky and unassuming narration, coupled with his keen eye for detail, turns ordinary experiences into extraordinary reflections on the human condition.
The show has garnered a devoted following and critical acclaim, with its second season even earning an Emmy nomination for outstanding writing for a nonfiction program. In a recent interview, Wilson discussed his creative process, his ongoing feud with the sex cult NXIVM, and the origins of his signature stammer.
When asked about the changes he has observed in New York City since the COVID-19 pandemic, Wilson mentioned that while the city went through a grim period, it has now started to open up again. He noted that people have become more eager to engage in conversations, starved for social interaction. Wilson also expressed his excitement about the visual possibilities that have emerged, as New York presents itself in new and unexpected ways.
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As for the final season of How To with John Wilson, Wilson explained that he had a general idea of the episode titles he wanted to cover but was unsure where exactly he would end up. He described the experience as both scary and exciting, with each season bringing its own set of crazy coincidences and unexpected adventures.
One of the defining aspects of the show is Wilson’s willingness to immerse himself fully in the experiences he encounters. He admitted that while it is part of his natural personality to be curious and join others in their activities, having a camera with him gives him the confidence to pursue those moments further. Wilson emphasized that the show is not simply about the subjects it initially explores but rather about the unexpected directions it takes along the way.
In the interview, Wilson brought up a specific episode in which he joined a woman on her cross-country drive to Burning Man. He discussed his frustrations when legal issues prevented him from including footage from the event. However, he also highlighted the show’s ability to turn negative experiences into something meaningful and valuable. Wilson explained that he always strives to find the silver lining and transform bad situations into opportunities for growth and discovery.
The interview also touched on Wilson’s ongoing feud with NXIVM, a notorious sex cult. Wilson revealed that the legal battle over the Burning Man footage involved the production company behind The Vow, a documentary series featuring former NXIVM members. He expressed his disdain for the cult and its leader, Keith Raniere, who was Wilson’s a capella nemesis in college. Despite Raniere’s imprisonment, Wilson claims that he is still puppeteering from behind bars.
A notable aspect of How To with John Wilson is Wilson’s decision to keep his face hidden throughout the show. When asked about this choice, Wilson explained that he wanted to remove the vanity from the series and allow viewers to project themselves onto the images. He also mentioned that not being recognized in public has helped him capture candid moments and avoid unwanted attention.
Wilson expressed his gratitude to Nathan Fielder, who played a crucial role in bringing How To with John Wilson to HBO. He described Fielder as a close friend who provided guidance and support throughout the show’s creation. Fielder’s presence during the first season helped Wilson shed his ego and approach the project with a humbler perspective.
In conclusion, How To with John Wilson stands as a refreshing and thought-provoking series that defies categorization. Through Wilson’s unique vision and storytelling style, the show transcends its surface-level premise and delves into deeper, more profound reflections on the human experience. With its final season set to air, viewers can expect even more unexpected adventures and poignant moments that resonate long after the credits roll.
