Derek Rushlow Robert Wuhl created and starred in this HBO TV show about a sports agent who was cutthroat but, at the same time, had the important values everyone seems to have.Robert Wuhl portrayed Arliss Michaels, who represents several athletes (most of which are real and even made cameo appearances on the show). Sandra Oh played Rita, Arliss's sarcastic secretary who was never afraid to speak her mind and even helped Arliss as well as her co-workers at times. Then there was Jim Turner, who played Kirby, another sports agent who had those important values which made up for his unruly ways of doing business and other activities outside the office (you have to see the show). Finally, there was Michael Boatman, who played Stanley, the agency's financial adviser who was ultimately an arrogant jerk who was somewhat likable and even funny.The show itself was funny, but sometimes even touching and truthful. It pointed out that even the biggest people in a business like this has the kind of heart a lot of people look for in everyone. That is what made these characters (Arliss, Rita, Kirby, and yes, even Stanley) likable -- they all had hearts.Robert Wuhl also served as executive producer and even directed some episodes.I give "Arliss" 3 1/2 stars out of 4.

Hotoil HBO usually has a knack for picking up some funny series. Kids in the Hall, Mr. Show with Bob & David, The Larry Sanders Show, Chris Rock, Dennis Miller Live...capable of packing in a lot of laughs. Not Arli$$. One of the most unfunny series I have ever seen with a cast that has absolutely no chemistry. The concept seems rich, but the writing staff doesn't seem to have a clue about comedy and the stories they come up with are less than interesting. I can usually sit through a block of HBO comedy shows but this one always has me turning off the TV.

Evil_Fonzie HBO is responsible for some of the most groundbreaking programming to grace the medium of television in the past decade, that is why I am amazed that they continue to broadcast this show. It is just not funny, it is almost as if Robert Wuhl took the "ruthless sports agent" idea from Jerry Maguire and decided to make it not funny or amusing in any way. This show is a waste of time.

UMich I have watched Arli$$ from the beginning, and believe that the quality has deteriorated a great deal. However, when the show deals with serious topics in a serious manner (and still manages to work in some humor) such as recent episodes dealing with domestic violence and steroid use, it is one of the most compelling comedies on television.