snl hermes handbags video | Hermes

The "SNL Hermes Handbags Video" remains a beloved and frequently revisited piece of Saturday Night Live history. The skit, featuring Ben Affleck as an ex-boyfriend desperately trying to unload a collection of exorbitantly expensive Hermes handbags, has resonated with audiences for its sharp writing, Affleck's committed performance, and its spot-on satire of both luxury goods and post-breakup awkwardness. This article delves into every facet of this iconic sketch, exploring its origins, dissecting its humor, and examining why it continues to be relevant even years after its initial airing.

The Genesis of the "SNL Hermes Handbags Skit"

The skit aired on May 18, 2013, during the season 38 episode hosted by Ben Affleck, with Kanye West as the musical guest. This was a significant episode for Affleck, marking his fifth time hosting the show, earning him entry into the coveted "Five-Timers Club." While the entire episode was generally well-received, the "Hermes Handbags" skit quickly emerged as a standout moment. The premise is deceptively simple: Affleck plays a recently dumped boyfriend, trying to recoup some of his losses by selling the Hermes handbags he purchased for his ex-girlfriend. The humor, however, lies in the escalating desperation of his sales pitch, the sheer absurdity of the Hermes brand in this context, and the cringeworthy interactions with the potential buyers.

The "SNL" writing team, known for their ability to tap into the zeitgeist and deliver biting social commentary, crafted a sketch that perfectly captured the anxieties surrounding relationships, money, and the performative nature of gift-giving. The skit brilliantly subverts the image of Hermes, a brand synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, by placing it in the context of a messy, relatable breakup.

Diving into the "Hermes Handbags SNL Script"

The success of the skit hinges on its meticulously crafted script. The dialogue is sharp, witty, and relentlessly funny. Affleck's character, whose name is never explicitly revealed, begins with a veneer of composure, attempting to present himself as a knowledgeable seller. However, as the sketch progresses, his facade crumbles, revealing his wounded pride and financial desperation.

The script expertly utilizes a number of comedic devices. The primary source of humor stems from the contrast between the aspirational image of Hermes and the down-to-earth (and often inappropriate) reasons for selling them. He doesn't say, "My girlfriend and I broke up, and I need the money." Instead, he offers increasingly convoluted and pathetic explanations for the handbags' availability, ranging from needing to pay for his "sick hamster" to having invested all his money in a "tulip bulb scheme" in Amsterdam.

Another key element is the escalating price drops. He starts with an inflated price, trying to recoup as much as possible, but quickly lowers it as he faces rejection. This downward spiral highlights his increasing desperation and further underscores the absurdity of the situation.

The script also relies on the awkwardness inherent in the situation. The potential buyers, played by cast members like Kate McKinnon and Cecily Strong, are initially polite and interested, but their reactions gradually shift to discomfort and pity as Affleck's character becomes more unhinged. Their deadpan delivery and subtle facial expressions amplify the humor, making the scene even more cringeworthy and hilarious.

Furthermore, the script cleverly incorporates details about the Hermes brand itself. References to specific Hermes bag models, such as the Birkin and Kelly bags, add a layer of authenticity and allow the writers to satirize the brand's exclusivity and high prices. The characters' awareness of the brand's prestige further highlights the contrast between the bags' inherent value and the character's desperate attempts to unload them.

Justin Timberlake's Cameo: A Moment of Unexpected Brilliancesnl hermes handbags video

While Ben Affleck anchors the skit with his stellar performance, the surprise cameo by Justin Timberlake takes it to another level. Timberlake, a frequent "SNL" guest and a master of comedic timing, plays a flamboyant friend of Affleck's character who attempts to help with the sales pitch.

Timberlake's character is a walking stereotype, embodying the image of a wealthy, extravagant individual with questionable taste. He offers unsolicited advice, makes inappropriate comments, and generally adds to the already heightened level of awkwardness. His presence further destabilizes Affleck's character, pushing him closer to the brink of despair.

Timberlake's cameo isn't just a random appearance; it's a carefully calculated comedic move. His character serves as a foil to Affleck's, highlighting the latter's desperation and adding another layer of absurdity to the situation. The dynamic between the two actors is electric, and their improvisational moments (if any) seamlessly blend into the script.

The Enduring Appeal of the "SNL Hermes Handbags Skit"

The "SNL Hermes Handbags Video" continues to be popular for several reasons.