I think we're supposed to think that Crazy Christians (which we never saw) and Science Schmience (which was middle-school level humor, if that) are cutting edge and no doubt the Commedia dell'Arte reference is supposed to make the show seem intellectual, so I think yeah, we're supposed to think the show within the show is doing cutting edge political satire instead of old gags that weren't very funny the first time around.

I also think the 'smug' was a more metatextual comment - that Sorkin was hitting out at people who think *his* shows are smug.

I just... the racial things going on in last night's episode baffle me - how am i supposed to take this judge seriously when he keeps calling Simon "Sammy"?

As I've said before - if the show can't sell me on a prejudice I already share - that this country between the coasts is made up of hicks and sticks - then it's failing in a big way.