The New York Times – Film:
It doesn’t make best-of lists, but the series, then and now, was always much smarter than its characters, and it didn’t try too hard. Sorry, Bart Simpson.
Author: Jason Zinoman
-
Jokes + Exasperation + Subtext = a New York Club Comic on the Rise
The New York Times – Film:
In Raanan Hershberg’s standup, the punchline is not the point; it’s what his runaway emotions reveal that’s funny.
-
Kate Berlant Can’t Hide Any Longer
The New York Times – Film:
The experimental comic is known for freewheeling sets. Then Bo Burnham asked, “What if you actually tried to make something?” The transition has been hard.
-
You Are Getting Sleepy. When You Wake Up, You Will Be an Improv Star.
The New York Times – Film:
In “Hyprov,” audience members are hypnotized into performing sketches. The show’s creators argue that the novices make stronger choices than pros would.
-
5 Smart Comedy Specials From Veteran Standups
The New York Times – Film:
Joel Kim Booster, Nikki Glaser, Bill Burr, Fahim Anwar and Cristela Alonzo deliver strong hours ideal for summer viewing.
-
Janeane Garofalo Never Sold Out. What a Relief.
The New York Times – Film:
That concept might be the reason her trailblazing stand-up career has been overshadowed; it may also be the reason she’s still so sharp, our critic argues.
-
What Makes Katt Williams Great? It’s Not the Jokes, It’s the Performance
The New York Times – Film:
His new special, “World War III” on Netflix, underlines the showmanship and drama that make him the finest arena stand-up of the moment.
-
Marty Callner Might Be the Most Influential Comedy Director
The New York Times – Music:
Marty Callner made the first modern special, setting the template still in use. (He was also key to hair-metal videos. But that’s another story.)
-
He Might Be the Most Influential Director You’ve Never Heard Of
The New York Times – Music:
Marty Callner made the first modern special, setting the template still in use. (He was also key to hair-metal videos. But that’s another story.)