Watch Dying Laughing

Dying Laughing is a 2016 documentary film that delves into the life of stand-up comedians. The film features interviews with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Chris Rock, Jerry Seinfeld, Amy Schumer, Sarah Silverman, and many others. The documentary gives insight into the creative process of comedians and explores the highs and lows of working in the often brutal comedy scene. The film highlights the challenges and risks involved in the stand-up comedy business from the constant self-improvement, handling hecklers, and the psychological toll it takes on performers.

Throughout the film, a recurring theme is the apprehension and anxiety that performers face as they prepare for their sets. The raw emotions displayed by some of the comedians selected for this film are sometimes uncomfortable to watch, but at the same time, it serves as a testament to their commitment and love of the craft.

The documentary includes glimpses of some of the most memorable moments of these comedians' lives, as they recount stories of bombing on stage and mastering the art of timing. Dying Laughing doesn't shy away from the less glamorous side of the stand-up comedy scene, with many of the interviewees sharing great insights into how difficult it can be to keep their careers afloat and their egos in check.

Particularly poignant moments come from the interviews with comics who have experienced the tragedies of losing performers to depression and suicide, as well as insights into the struggle of mental illness that some comedians face while living in the spotlight.

The film's directors, Lloyd Stanton and Paul Toogood, had independent roots in the comedy scene before landing their present collaboration. Still, they also managed to build an emotional connection with their interviewees, yielding memorably candid conversations.

Dying Laughing offers an engaging and entertaining experience, with moments of humor and pathos intermingled throughout. It offers a rare glimpse into the world of comedy, with interviews that reveal the hidden aspects of the profession that audiences don't typically get to see. The candid and revealing interviews provide valuable insights into the art of making people laugh.

The film is well-crafted, and its pacing ensures that you are never bored. There are moments where you will laugh and then be faced with the sobering reality of the feelings and the struggle comics face before and after their performance. The combination of these moments ensures that Dying Laughing is a documentary that you will not forget in a hurry.

Overall, Dying Laughing is a unique documentary that provides a behind-the-scene perspective of the comic world. It offers an unflinching look at the psychological and emotional highs and lows that go into the stand-up comedy scene, and the people who keep coming back to it despite the challenges it presents. The film is not just for comedy lovers or performers; it's a must-watch for anyone who wants to get insight into the human condition.

Dying Laughing is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 73.