Watch Doug Stanhope: Beer Hall Putsch

Doug Stanhope: Beer Hall Putsch is a one-hour stand-up comedy special directed by Jeff Santo and released in 2013. It features the acclaimed stand-up comedian Doug Stanhope performing in front of a live audience at the historic Tramway Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is accompanied by his fellow comics and longtime collaborators, Andy Andrist and Kristine Levine.

The film opens with a prelude which includes clips of news broadcasts of political and social upheavals that have taken place around the world. The prelude then transitions to shots of Doug, Andy, and Kristine backstage as they prepare to take the stage. Doug enters the stage, beer in hand and cigarette in mouth, to raucous applause from the audience.

Stanhope's comedy is biting and unapologetically vulgar, and he doesn't hold back in his critique of religion, politics, and social norms. He tackles controversial topics such as abortion, rape, and drug use and delivers them in his trademark caustic style.

One of the recurring themes throughout the special is Stanhope's disdain for patriotism and American exceptionalism. He takes aim at the country's obsession with the military, criticizing the country's actions in foreign wars and pointing out the lack of care the government shows for veterans.

Another theme is his critique of religion, particularly Christianity. Stanhope's disdain for Christianity is clear, and he takes every opportunity to skewer its hypocrisies and contradictions. He also mocks the believers who have a tendency to wear their faith on their sleeves, sharply criticizing their failure to show true compassion and empathy towards their fellow human beings.

Stanhope also turns his sights on the issue of mental health, calling out the pharmaceutical industry for its role in perpetuating a cycle of addiction and mental illness. He discusses his own struggles with alcoholism and addiction, sharing his experience in rehab and the shortcomings of the treatment he received.

Throughout the special, fellow comedians Kristine Levine and Andy Andrist make appearances, contributing their own comedic stylings to the show. They bring a refreshing change of pace to the proceedings, offering a slightly different take on the issues and adding some much-needed levity to the mix.

All in all, Doug Stanhope: Beer Hall Putsch is a raucous, no-holds-barred comedy special that is sure to offend as many people as it entertains. Stanhope's ability to find humor in the darkest corners of humanity and his unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries make this an unforgettable film. Whether you agree with his opinions or not, there's no denying the power of his comedy and the insight he brings to the issues he tackles.

Doug Stanhope: Beer Hall Putsch is a 2013 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.