Key and Peele's use of absurdity and violence also serves as a commentary on societal norms and expectations. In "The Angry African American" (Season 2, Episode 4), Key plays a stereotypical "angry black guy" who becomes increasingly enraged by a series of mundane situations, including a malfunctioning vending machine and a rude coworker. The sketch's humor comes from the absurdity of the character's reactions, but also serves as a commentary on the ways in which American society expects African Americans to conform to certain stereotypes.
: The real "weapon" in this sketch isn't the firearms; it's the personal information used to blackmail the participants, such as revealing an ongoing affair with a hacker’s wife. Post-Apocalyptic Armories key and peele weapons
In the sketch "Gangsta Trainee" (Season 1, Episode 5), Keegan-Michael Key plays a wannabe gangster who is being trained by a seasoned thug (played by Jordan Peele). The sketch's humor comes from the absurdity of the "weapons" used by the gangster, including a toy gun and a rolled-up newspaper. As the sketch progresses, the "weapons" become increasingly ridiculous, culminating in a showdown between the two characters using nothing but their bare fists. Key and Peele's use of absurdity and violence
The sketches typically feature Jordan Peele and Keegan-Michael Key as two overly serious, tactically-dressed operatives—often in a warehouse, armory, or mission prep room—discussing their upcoming operation. The humor comes from the jarring contrast between their hyper-masculine, whispered tactical jargon and the utterly ridiculous weapons they plan to use. : The real "weapon" in this sketch isn't
Throughout the roll call, the tension rises. First, there is "Jay-quell-in" (Jacqueline). Then, the iconic "A-A-Ron" (Aaron). Each iteration raises the stakes. The students are cowed into submission, accepting their new identities out of fear. Mr. Garvey is winning.
The use of absurdity and violence in this sketch serves as a commentary on the ways in which online discourse can become escalated and out of control. The sketch also highlights the ways in which American society has become increasingly desensitized to violence and aggression, both online and offline.