Watch Ari Shaffir: Passive Aggressive

Ari Shaffir: Passive Aggressive is a stand-up comedy special released in 2013, starring comedian Ari Shaffir. It was filmed in New York City in front of a live audience at the Comedy Cellar, a famous venue known for launching the careers of many legendary comedians. The show features Shaffir in his element, delivering his signature brand of irreverent and self-deprecating humor with a confidence and ease that is evident from the outset. The title of the special comes from Shaffir's tendency to be the passive-aggressive type, and he uses this topic as a jumping-off point for a variety of jokes and observations throughout the performance.

One of Shaffir's strengths as a comedian is his ability to find humor in unlikely places, and he does so in Passive Aggressive by delving into topics such as his Jewish heritage, drug use, and relationships. He explores the complexities of dating, from the joys of falling in love to the awkward realities of sex, with a healthy mixture of crassness and vulnerability that is both refreshing and relatable.

Another highlight of the show is Shaffir's willingness to poke fun at himself and his own quirks, such as his tendency to overthink social interactions and his struggles with anxiety. While these topics might be too personal for some comedians to touch, Shaffir's willingness to be vulnerable with his audience only makes his jokes more effective and endearing.

Throughout the performance, Shaffir maintains a fast-paced energy that keeps the audience engaged and laughing from start to finish. He demonstrates a gift for timing and pacing, knowing just when to pause for emphasis or when to shift gears to keep things fresh.

One of the most memorable moments of the show comes towards the end, when Shaffir takes a break from his jokes to deliver a heartfelt monologue about his father's battle with cancer. It's a rare serious moment in an otherwise lighthearted and irreverent set, but Shaffir handles it with grace and honesty, demonstrating his skill as both a comedian and a storyteller.

In terms of production value, the special is fairly straightforward, with a simple stage setup and minimal visuals. However, this simplicity allows Shaffir's comedic talent to take center stage, as he relies solely on his words and his presence to captivate the audience.

Overall, Ari Shaffir: Passive Aggressive is a highly entertaining and hilarious comedy special that showcases Shaffir's talent as a comedian and his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. It's a must-watch for fans of stand-up comedy and anyone looking for a good laugh.

Ari Shaffir: Passive Aggressive is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.