Clear History

On Martha's Vineyard, Nathan Flomm vanishes any hint of his former life after a humiliating misstep costs him a fortune and the respect of his peers. He adopts a discreet alias and a low profile, rebuilding his world with careful new habits, a fresh wardrobe, and a sharper sense of timing. Years pass and success returns in a quiet, private form, letting him live unseen among neighbors who know him only as a reserved newcomer. Then the very partner whose betrayal triggered his downfall buys property nearby, stirring old resentments and an instinct to rebalance the scales. This setup sets the stage for a biting satire about pride, disguise, and the costs of ego.

Directed by Greg Mottola, Clear History premiered on HBO in 2014 as an original screenplay by David Mandel, Larry David and Jeff Schaffer. It brings together a sharp ensemble and benefits from the network's breezy, high gloss look that suits its island satire.

Awards: The special did not garner major nominations or wins. Critics praised Larry David's timing and the sharp, usually humane humor, and noted the clever lines that poke fun at wealth and revenge. Still, it remained a cult favorite rather than an awards darling.

Cultural Impact: The film sits in the tradition of Larry David's dry satire about wealth and reputation. While not a watershed moment in pop culture, it reinforces the actor's persona and the HBO style that blends social awkwardness with pointed humor. It also serves as a time capsule of 2010s celebrity culture.

Reception & Themes: Critics noted the dry wit and a sharp premise that plays with reinvention and ego. The script asks how far a person will go to repair a damaged ego, and whether disguise can truly protect one from consequences. Some viewers found the pacing uneven, but the jokes land for fans of the show's sensibility.