the audience applauded

Fresh and Exciting

It really made me laugh, but for some moments I was tearing up because I could relate so much.

Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable

Ellen is the "Dalai Lama" of our era's sociological crisis, understanding the fundamental issue that has critically impacted human nature as a whole, and on an individual level. "Here and Now" is a masterful presentation that brings to our attention the heart of American life today. It's amazing how eloquently she nail's the vague, deeply unsettling core adversity that represents the hallmark of American citizens lives today, while making us laugh hysterically at our weakness.I've always admired Ellen, seeing in her a wise, compassionate, deep soul that loves and understands people. She has courageously sacrificed herself to offer humanity a kind service with the gift of her humor, even as she vulnerably exposed her true self publicly, knowing she would face the heavy burden of society's judgment. In "Here and Now", Ellen has never been more beautiful, witty, humble and radiant, a woman who has attained her full potential with grace, and this all makes the subject matter of her show more touching on a personal level.This is a must-see for all, especially for baby-boomers and early Gen-Xer's, who will so easily relate and laugh at ourselves and our lives, poignantly bringing us back in touch with life before the chaos, when things were so much simpler, and joy could be experienced in the little things that mattered.Bravo, Ellen! What a beautiful way to share your vision and help us all more aware that we can make life what we want it to be more like - if we choose. I could not help but enjoy the show even more so, for "seeing" that lovable little blue fish called Dori in my mind - they both share so much in common.

It's become hip in many circles to say how unfunny Ellen Degeneres is, that she only gets attention because she's a lesbian, that if she was male and straight, no one would pay to see her stand-up act. I think that's flatly untrue. Ellen isn't a laugh a minute -- sometimes she drags out bits much too long -- but overall she is quite funny. She picks apart minutiae with sharp but never mean-spirited wit, and doesn't use curse words (well, that's not entirely true; I recall her using the s-word once in a previous televised stand up routine), and makes us all laugh at our own silliness.My favorite bits are "pickle juice in your eye," "We are so comfortable with that uncomfortable feeling," and "She tripped -- no, she's running. No, she tripped. YOU TRIPPED!"

Ellen DeGenerous takes us on a tour of the American Dream, from the home, to the office, to the local bar, to the airport, even to our pets at home. Ellen is witty, funny, easy to empathize with the human condition, with her finger on the pulse. I laughed straight through this HBO special, and didn't want it to end. Cute, sassy, and satirical, Ellen romps through the social hierarchy of woes, trials and tribulations -- sharing the tidbits, embarrassments, we all can relate with in signature Ellen fashion. I've seen this special several times now, and am alway impressed at how fresh, and light, and just how damn funny Ellen is.I saw her in Finding Nemo, and she was remarkably hysterical, with her signature uncertain innocence, and sharp intuitive spirit.

I have been a fan of Ellen's since before Electricity! I am so incredibly glad that I got a chance to see Ellen perform this 'Here and Now' stand-up routine LIVE! I saw her at GW's Lisner Auditorium April 16, 2003 and oh my goodness was she hilarious! There was no way I was going to miss this HBO special. I was so worried that they would cut out a few of the jokes that I enjoyed from seeing her live, but they didn't! I was thrilled! Ellen is so gifted at everything that she does. She has a very high bar for what she does. I don't blame her one bit. You don't see many (As a matter of fact ANY) comics doing a whole routine with no cursing, foul language, political statements or anything that would attack another human being or racial slurs. That's why Ellen is the Queen of comedy.I really love Ellen's sense of humor, the way she looks at the world. Her timing is impeccable. She's incredibly gifted. She's a comedian, she knows the rhythm and so she can take the scene and give it the flow and the build and she's a pleasure to watch.I love her honesty, sincerity, generousity and most of all her personality. She's so down to earth. If you've ever met her or will ever meet her, you will see that in her. She's an amazing woman.Thank you Ellen for making my experience of seeing you LIVE IN THE FLESH :D an unforgettable night! You had me laughing hysterically!I had pleasure talking to you. Thank you for allowing me to speak to you. Thank you for the autograph and the hug. :D You are on awesome chick!Your HBO special rocked! I can't wait for your new talk show. Good luck with all of your dreams.