The Comedies of Sundance 2015: Our Look at What Comedy-Related Films to Get Excited About
This year the Sundance Film Festival had a lot of great offerings with comedy tie-ins, including several documentaries we’re dying to see, and a few comedy narratives. Here is a round up of what’s coming, and what the critical consensus is about how it will play around the country. If you’re looking for the short version and judging based on the consensus of critics and audience members at Sundance, here’s the top ten comedy-related films coming out of Sundance that we are most looking forward to seeing: The End of the Tour, Call Me Lucky, Misery Loves Comedy, Drunk Stones Brilliant Dead: The Story of the National Lampoon, Grandma, Me Earl and The Dying Girl, Slow West, Mississippi Grind, The Overnight, and Mistress America.
The Comedy Documentaries
First, the documentaries. It’s no secret that CALL ME LUCKY is on the short list of films we’ve been anticipating. We’re a fan of every film Bobcat Goldthwait releases, and Barry Crimmins an important figure in comedy. Crimmins was responsible for the birth of the Boston comedy scene, and he’s as sharp as they come. So we knew this film was going to be on our short list and everything we’re hearing out of Sundance confirms it. These two great comedy figures come together to create Call Me Lucky a documentary in which humorist and satirist Barry Crimmins recounts his career rise as an underground hero of political humor to his friend, Bobcat Goldthwait. He also reveals childhood trauma of sex abuse he carries with him and how he confronted it in the early days by going after sexual predators in the early days of the internet. Goldthwait originally considered making the film as a narrative but changed his mind when discussing the film with Robin Williams, whom the film is dedicated to.
Critical Consensus: The film received multiple standing ovations during the screenings. Indiewire felt that the film worked best when Goldthwait tied the childhood effects to Crimmins political wit. RogerEbert.com called the film a bit “too worshipful” of Crimmins but felt the movie worked because it highlights why so many comics with tragic lives become cynical, talented comics…to raise awareness. Variety says the film packs an unexpected whallop, and along with Kevin Pollak’s documentary, this film is on the top of our most anticipated list.
When You Can See It: N/A
Also on our short list is Kevin Pollak’s documentary MISERY LOVES COMEDY. It is also the second documentary on our list dedicated to Robin Williams at Sundance this year. Comedian, actor, author, talk show host and now filmmaker Kevin Pollack asks big names if all comics really do come from tragedy (or do they just see life that way). Kevin Smith, Judd Apatow, Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Martin Short, Christopher Guest, Stephen Merchant, Jim Gaffigan, Larry David and Jon Favreau are just a few of the amazing comedic personalities who appear in the talking head documentary. In addition to his incredible film career (The Usual Suspects, Casino and A Few Good Men to name just a few of his roles) Pollak is an amazing impressionist and has been a touring headlining comedian for decades, so we’re very interested in seeing his perspective on the relationship between comedy and tragedy. His award winning web series, Kevin Pollak’s Chat Show has been another huge success, and we’re expecting his documentary to be as impressive as the rest of his career. The general manager of Tribeca Films who acquired the doc says Kevin Pollak “has made a ‘must watch’ on the art of comedy.”
Critical Consensus: The Hollywood Reporter found the film to be a “funny and engaging look at the most twisted and naked branch of the entertainment world” and The Wrap praised the films “arresting anecdotes and insights from the comedy underbelly.” Hitfix questioned whether the film was ‘too white’ but that minor criticism doesn’t concern us. This film was on the top of our most anticipated list before Sundance, and now that Tribeca has picked up the film, we’re even more excited to see it.
When You Can See It: Tribeca Films picked up the doc, so likely after the Tribeca Film Festival.
The film TIG documents headlining comedian Tig Notaro’s fight with cancer while making a name for herself in the industry. Using Notaro’s 2012 stand up set in which she disclosed her fight with breast cancer which made the alternative comic a viral star, documentarians follow her course of treatment. The film also delves into her desire to have a child and her new relationship with an actress who insists she’s straight.
Critical Consensus: Fans of Notaro will enjoy spending time in her company but may not learn more about her inner-life than they do from her bare-all comedy.
When Can You See It: On Showtime Network
The film DRUNK STONED BRILLIANT DEAD: THE HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL LAMPOON attempts to record the history of the Harvard Lampoon as it went from counter culture print to cult radio and multi-million dollar producers. Director Douglas Tirola focuses on Doug Kenny and Henry Beard’s era, and shines a light on some of the lesser known voices (Michael Gross’s visual art work and SNL writer Michael O’Donoghue).
Critical Consensus: The movie was praised for its focus on the magazine and radio show/live shows, and putting the bigger names in context with those who stayed in the background. First Showing especially like the inclusion of controversial material which would be shocking to see today and makes the film more like a time capsule. Boston Globe called it typical but enjoyable, but loved anytime they included footage from the stage shows and radio because its liked “uncovering the family tree of modern comedy.”
When You Can See It: N/A
Not about comedy, but created by a comedic personality, is the Evel Knievel doc BEING EVEL. Johnny Knoxville produces a documentary about his hero Evil Knievel and the reason he captured the imagination of so many children in a certain era. Knoxville and Knievel’s inner circle are extensively interviewed.
Critical Consesus: An enjoyable and fun, if slightly typical biopic. Indiewire praised director Daniel Junge for focusing on the colorful crew of Knievel who are entertaining participants and are more than willing to critique Knievel for occasionally being a bit of a shit.
When You Can See It: N/A
The story of a man who went onto a TV court-show to get the leg he lost in a grill back from the man who bought that grill at a storage locker sale is told in FINDERS KEEPERS.
Critical Consensus: Comparisons were understandably made to King of Kong, with one participant trying to overcome tragedy, while the other is a selfish, cheap, opportunist…there is a very specific person to root for. And it is when the director wants to humanize the opportunist, the movie veers off course for Indiewire, which also called it unpleasant exploitation. Variety was more favorable, calling it hilarious and insightful.
When You Can See It: N/A
The Comedy Narratives
On the narrative side of Sundance, I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS follows a retired school teacher (Blythe Danner) who sparks a friendship with her pool guy (Martin Starr) after her dog dies, shaking up her tranquil life of card games and gardening. Writer/Director-Brett Haley, Writer-Marc Basch, Cast: Blythe Danner, Martin Starr, Sam Elliot, Malin Akerman, June Squibb, Rhea Perlman, Mary Kay Place, Reid Scott.
Critical Consensus: Starr and Danner both received high praise for their low-kay charm. The Guardian found that despite being sentimental and cheesy, it had a good enough script and cast to overcome that and be something more than formulaic. NY Post called it “a sweet natured comedy with tragic overtones” but note it doesn’t go very deep in discussion of age.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Bleeker Street
RESULTS is a romantic comedy about a recently divorced man who forms a relationship with a gym owner/guru and personal trainer in a search for determining the connections between money and happiness. Writer/Director-Andrew Bujalski, Cast-Guy Pearce, Cobie Smulders, Kevin Corrigan, Anthony Michael Hall, Giovanni Ribisi, Brooklyn Decker
Critical Consensus: Andrew Bujalski’s first film with professional actors, and follow up to the movie Computer Chess, is his most commercial film but retains his rambling intellectualism. Variety found the film to be Altmanesque with “a warm inviting glow.” Unfortunately, the New York Post found the professional actors to be miscast and fail to be funny or romantic.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Magnolia
In MISTRESS AMERICA, A college freshman new to New York City is introduced to her effervescent step-sister to be who leads an exciting life in Manhattan. Writer/Director-Noah Baumbach, Writer-Greta Gerwig, Cast-Greta Gerwig, Lola Kirke
Critical Consensus: Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig’s follow-up to Francis Ha is being called the director’s funniest, lightest and most energetic film. Coming Soon disliked the aimlessness quality of the film. However Screen International found the film “A thoroughly delightful bauble about female friendship and the double-edged sword of getting to know someone who seems far cooler than you.”
When Can You See It: Acquired by Fox Searchlights
DON VERDEAN centers on a biblical archeologist paid to find religious artifacts by a church commits fraud when his search comes up empty. Writer/Director-Jared Hess, Writer-Jerusha Hess, Cast-Sam Rockwell, Amy Ryan, Jemaine Clement, Danny McBride, Will Forte, Leslie Bibb, Steve Park
Critical Consensus: Despite its great cast, the movie didn’t receive positive reviews. The Hollywood Reporter found the film not to be funny enough or satirical enough to make an impression, and felt the filmmakers were too careful to avoid offense to make an effective religious comedy.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Lionsgate
In THE D-TRAIN, a high school loser tries to improve his image by getting the high school celebrity to attend the class reunion. Writers/Directors-Andrew Mogel, Jarrad Paul, Cast-Jack Black, James Marsden, Kathryn Hahn, Jeffrey Tambor, Kyle Bornheimer, Mike White
Critical Consensus: Note: Spoilers (features one of two much talked about sex scenes from the festival). Jack Black and especially James Marsden were praised for their commitment to their rolls but the move was most often criticized for being tonally inconsistent. Consequence of Sound says The D-Train will “undoubtedly be the most provocative and polarizing comedy to hit theaters” in coming months. Indie Wire called the film an entertaining take on a worthy message. However Variety, while praising the film for looking at the line between male friendship and attraction, however, found that it “can be as frustrating as it is funny, flailing about in search of the right tone of dark absurdity (established in part by Andrew Dost’s synth score), but more often falling back on easy laughs and implausible, sitcomish formulations.”
When Can You See It: Acquired by IFC Films
Taking more than a few cues from When Harry Met Sally, SLEEPING WITH OTHER PEOPLE explores college students losing their virginity to one another and reconnecting a decade later as friends. Writer/Director-Leslye Headland, Cast-Alison Brie, Jason Sudeikis, Adam Scott, Natasha Lyonne, Amanda Peet, Andrea Savage, Jason Mantzoukas
Critical Consensus: The Hollywood Reporter gave a tentative but positive review of the film. But The Guardian was far less positive, calling Leslye Headland’s follow up to Bachelorette “the full Hollywood sell-out.”
When Can You See It: N/A
Paul Weitz abortion comedy about an aging lesbian helping her teenage granddaughter raise the money needed for an abortion, is the plot line for GRANDMA, written and directed by Paul Weitz, with Lily Tomlin, Julia Garner, Sam Elliot, Laverine Cox, Meg Crosbie cast.
Critical Consensus: In short, every critic seems to agree that Lily Tomlin is great and should be working more. Also the movie excels at mixing humor and emotion in a narrative that focuses specifically on the links between women in a family…but basically, everyone loves Tomlin.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Sony Pictures Classic
A sex comedy about two couples with children who have a pizza party and start disclosing their secrets, THE OVERNIGHT is helmed by Writer/Director-Patrick Brice with a cast that includes Judith Godreche, Taylore Schilling, Jason Schwartzman, Adam Scott.
Critical Consensus: Widely praised for the film’s dark undercurrent mixed with unexpected comedy and a stand out cast of comic actors. New York Post called the film an “unpredictably weird and delightful sex comedy, “The Overnight” has a sly take on contemporary coupledom.”
When Can You See It: Acquired by The Orchard
Joe Swanberg’s latest improvised film, DIGGING FOR FIRE, “co-written” by Jake Johnson, focuses on a married couple who find a skull in his backyard where they’re housesitting and begins digging up the backyard.
Critical Consensus: A rambling character film which received positive reviews for its ensemble and modern day look at secrets in marriage. Variety noted that along with Drinking Buddies (also starring Johnson) this is Swanberg’s increasing move toward the mainstream, and enjoyed the way it used the “murder mystery formula” and compared it favorably to Joe Dante’s The Burbs.
In THE BRONZE, A broke Olympic gymnast is forced to train a girl from her small town who threatens to steal her local glory. Features a much talked about sex scene with gymnastics. Director-Bryan Buckley, Writers-Melissa Rauch, Winston Rauch, Cast-Melissa Rauch, Gary Cole, Sebastian Stan, Cecily Tyson, Thomas Middleditch
Critical Consensus: The opening night film from writer/star Melissa Rauch received some of the worst reviews of the festival, with critics calling it self-satisfied, crass, and mean-spirited.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Relativity
The Fringe Comedies
The Grand Jury, Audience Award went out to ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL, about an introverted boy who spends all his free time making movies with his only friend Earl, who is set up by his mother to befriend a girl who is dying. Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, and writer Jesse Andrews, with a cast including Thomas Mann, Bobb’e J. Thompson, Olivia Cooke, Connie Britton, Nick Offerman, Molly Shannon
Critical Consensus: Audience Award winners usually means the film is a crowd pleaser, and this one certainly falls into that category. Along with near universal praise, the movie received comparisons to the likes of Harold and Maude and Be Kind Rewind, and succeeds at being a heartfelt coming-of-age teen comedy.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Fox Searchlights
A boy travels to America and into the west with a bounty-hunter in search of the girl he loves, in SLOW WEST (World Narrative Award). Writer/Director-John Maclean, Cast: Michael Fassbender, Kodi Smitt-McPhee, Ben Mendelsohn, Rory McCann, Brooke Williams
Critical Consensus: One of the big surprises of the film from first time feature director John Maclean is that it could even be called a comedy. With comparisons to Paul Thomas Anderson’s Boogie Nights and resembling the Coen Brothers reaffirmation parodies (the way Fargo is a parody of detective films). The movie is described by New York Magazine as an absurdist coming of age film, with violence occurring so brutally and sudden it is as comic as it is jarring. And The Guardian called it a “psychedelic western” with bursts of “surreal humor.”
When Can You See It: Acquired by A24/Direct TV, so in theaters and VOD
In MISSISSIPPI GRIND, another dramedy, a gambling addict and a drifter befriend each other and venture south to enter a high stakes poker tournament. Writers Directors Anna Boden, and Ryan Fleck, originally planned to make this an outright comedy but did a rewrite to make it less “jokey.” Ryan Reynolds, Ben Mendelsohn, Sienna Miller, Analeigh Tipton, Alfre Woodard, Robin Weigert, James Toback are cast.
Critical Consensus: The ending of the film was criticized, but the two main performances by Ryan Reynolds were widely praised. Variety declared that Mendelsohn and Reynold gave terrific performances in “a beautifully textured road movie.” Screen International notes that despite on the surface being a classic road film, the movie is “it’s most successful as a piquant character study of a middle-aged loser, fantastically played by Australian actor Ben Mendelsohn.”
When Can You See It: Acquired by A24
In the dramedy PEOPLE, PLACES, THINGS, a Brooklyn man who catches his wife in an affair is forced to relocate to a studio in Astoria, Queens and see his daughters only on occasion. Writer/Director-Jim Strouse, Cast-Jemaine Clement, Jessica Williams, Michael Chernus, Regina Hall, Stephanie Allynne
Critical Consensus: Indiewire considered this to be Jim Strauss’s best film to date, particularly the way the film looks at modern day fatherhood. New York Post praised the low-impact dramedy for its genuine emotions, but Variety found the goofy humor to hurt its emotional sincerity.
When Can You See It: N/A
Dramas Starring Comedians
Sarah Silverman stars in I SMILE BACK, a drama about a depressed mother and wife, who beings acting out in risky and potentially dangerous ways. Directed by Adam Salky, written by Paige Dylan, Amy Koppelman, with a cast including Sarah Silverman, Josh Charles, Billy Magnussen, Mia Barron
Critical Consensus: Decidedly mixed, some found Silverman’s performance to be enough to recommend the film, despite its failures in narrative storytelling. But a few found the character too spoiled to empathize with, and a waste of Silverman’s acting abilities. The Hollywood Reporter was especially harsh calling the film “a thankless and repetitive exercise in emotional pornography” but called Silverman’s performance “gutsy” and “compelling.”
When Can You See It: N/A
Jason Segal stars in THE END OF THE TOUR, the five day encounter of Rolling Stone Journalist and author David Foster Wallace. Directed by James Ponsoldt, Writen by Donald Margulies. The cast includes Jason Segel, Jesse Eisenberg, Anna Chlumsky, Joan Cusack, Mamie Gummer, and Ron Livingston.
Critical Consensus: Jason Segel is being called a revelation for his performance as David Foster Wallace, and the film was widely praised for capturing Wallace’s significance as a writer. Rogerebert.com praised the film because the director’s “love for his characters, and that likability softens the edges, without allowing the film to ever turn maudlin or sentimental.” And The Hollywood Reporter found it a noteworthy Sundance film for creating an atypical biopic.
When Can You See It: Acquired by A24
Kristen Wiig tackle dramatic film NASTY BABY about a gay photographer who decides with his lover to have a child with his best friend as a surrogate, but they have to deal with a hateful neighbor. Writer/Director-Sebastian Silva, Cast-Sebastian Silva, Reg E. Cathey, Mark Margolis, Kristen Wiig.
Critical Consensus: The film was considered likable but took a direction which some found illogical. ComingSoon found the film to focus on insignificant moments but is a humorous slice of life. The Hollywood Reporter found Silva’s ability to make the light into something profound worthy of praise, although Variety didn’t appreciate the way the film went off the rails.
When Can You See It: N/A
Kristen Wiig also stars in DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL in which a teenage girl living in 1970s San Francisco feels ignored by her drug using mother and begins sleeping with her 35 year old boyfriend. Director-Marielle Heller, Writer-Phoebe Gloekner, Cast-Bel Powley, Alexander Skarsgard, Kisten Wiig, Christopher Meloni.
Critical Consensus: While the New York Post wrote a pretty angry review of it, the majority of critics found it to be an excellent and authentic look at teenage adolescence. Lead Bel Powley is considered one of the festival’s breakout stars, and the Los Angeles Times wrote it one-ups An Education.
When Can You See It: Acquired by Sony Pictures Classic
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