Watch Crying with Laughter

Crying with Laughter is a 2009 Scottish movie that follows the story of Joey Frisk, a successful stand-up comedian in Glasgow, who is struggling with personal demons that are threatening to ruin his life. Joey is played skillfully by Stephen McCole, a talented actor whose performance carries the movie. Joey's success is all due to his sharp wit and quick comebacks, which he uses liberally on and off stage. He's in demand at clubs and bars across the city, and his reputation as one of Glasgow's funniest men is well-deserved.

However, his dark past is catching up with him, and he's finding it increasingly difficult to balance his complex personal life with his successful career. His relationship with his girlfriend, Kerry, played by Jo Hartley, is on the rocks, and he's on the verge of losing everything he's worked so hard to achieve.

The story takes a dramatic turn when Joey is contacted by an old school friend, Frank, played by Malcolm Shields. Frank is now a drug dealer, and he wants Joey to help him sell his latest batch in the comedy clubs where he performs. Joey is eager to help his old friend out, but as he becomes more deeply involved in Frank's world, he finds it harder to keep his own life on track.

Director Justin Molotnikov expertly balances comedy and drama in Crying with Laughter, crafting an engaging and powerful movie that doesn't shy away from hard-hitting topics. The film is set against the backdrop of the 2001 racially motivated murder of a young Asian man in Glasgow, adding a layer of tension and menace to the proceedings.

The movie is shot in a gritty style that mirrors the tough and uncompromising nature of Glasgow itself. The streets and bars are brought to life with a sense of realism that is both exhilarating and dangerous. Molotnikov never holds back in depicting the darker side of Glaswegian life, creating a world that is both captivating and terrifying.

The movie is not without its flaws, however. Some of the supporting characters are underdeveloped, and the pacing can drag at times. But these issues are minor compared to the strength of the central performance and the impact of the story.

Stephen McCole delivers a tour-de-force performance as Joey Frisk, showcasing a range of emotion and complexity that is truly remarkable. McCole captures Joey's desperation, anger, and humor with ease, making him a character that is impossible not to root for.

Malcolm Shields is equally impressive as Frank, bringing a sense of menace and unpredictability to his role. Shields' chemistry with McCole is excellent, and the scenes between the two are the film's strongest.

Supporting performances from Jo Hartley as Kerry and Andrew Neil as Joey's agent, Phil, are also noteworthy. Hartley brings a sense of vulnerability to her role as the long-suffering girlfriend, while Neil injects humor and energy into his portrayal of the fast-talking agent.

In conclusion, Crying with Laughter is a raw and powerful movie that explores the dark side of comedy and the price of success. The film is anchored by Stephen McCole's magnificent performance, and Justin Molotnikov's direction creates a world that is both captivating and horrifying. Despite a few minor flaws, this is a movie that is well worth watching.

Crying with Laughter is a 2009 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.