Watch Eat Drink Laugh: The Story of The Comic Strip

Eat Drink Laugh: The Story of The Comic Strip is a documentary film from 2014 that takes a deep dive into one of New York City's most legendary comedy clubs: The Comic Strip. Featuring interviews with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Billy Crystal, Paul Reiser, and Chris Rock, the film tells the story of how The Comic Strip became a hub for up-and-coming comedians looking to make it big.

The film is directed by Lisa Ades and follows a chronological timeline of the club's history, beginning with its founding in 1976 by Richie Tienken and Bob Wachs. Through interviews with Tienken, Wachs, and other key figures who were there at the beginning, we learn how The Comic Strip was able to establish itself as a premiere destination for comedians in the crowded New York City comedy scene of the 1970s and 80s.

As the film progresses, we hear from some of the club's biggest success stories. Billy Crystal talks about how he got his start at The Comic Strip and shares stories from his early days performing there alongside fellow up-and-comers like Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld. Paul Reiser recounts how he went from serving as the club's emcee to landing his breakout role on the hit television show Mad About You. And Chris Rock discusses how The Comic Strip helped him turn his stand-up career into a successful television career, culminating in his hit sitcom Everybody Hates Chris.

Throughout the film, we also hear from other comedians who made their mark at The Comic Strip, including Eddie Murphy, Adam Sandler, and Ray Romano. These interviews give us a sense of what it was like to be a part of the club's scene during its heyday, when it was the place to be for anyone looking to make it big in the world of comedy.

One of the film's strengths is how it balances the nostalgia of looking back at The Comic Strip's glory days with a sense of the club's continued relevance in the modern comedy landscape. We see footage of current performers taking the stage at The Comic Strip, proving that the club's legacy continues to this day. And through interviews with younger comedians who are just starting to make a name for themselves, we see how The Comic Strip continues to be a launching pad for new talent.

Overall, Eat Drink Laugh: The Story of The Comic Strip is an engaging and entertaining documentary that provides a fascinating look at one of New York City's most iconic comedy clubs. By bringing together a wide range of voices and perspectives, the film paints a comprehensive picture of how The Comic Strip helped shape the world of comedy as we know it, while also recognizing its ongoing importance to the present day.

Eat Drink Laugh: The Story of The Comic Strip is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.