The Name Said It All

Created by Paul Feig and Judd Apatow, the 1999 TV series Freaks and Geeks offered a painfully realistic look at high school, told from the perspective of a bunch of lovable nerds and burnouts. Perhaps the show was too realistic, however, as NBC canceled it after 15 episodes (three of which were slipped on the air when no one was looking). The few people who did watch it, loved it — hell, even TV Guide listed it in its Top 25 Cult Shows Ever — and the series' reputation was only boosted with the release of a DVD collecting all 18 filmed episodes, as well as by the later success of Apatow projects like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Superbad. Now, new and old fans of the show can return to 1980 and revisit Chippewa's McKinley High at Freaks and Geeks Speak!, a panel discussion with main writer Feig and various cast members. Actors James Franco and Seth Rogan may be too famous these days to attend, but aficionados will be thrilled to hear from Martin Starr (the hilariously geeky Bill), Busy Philipps (the tough-as-nails Kim), Dave "Gruber" Allen (the out-of-touch guidance counselor), and Linda Cardellini (the adorable Lindsey), among others. Maybe a film reunion is next? Freaks and Geeks Speak! is part of SF Sketchfest.
Sun., Jan. 20, 2 p.m., 2008