Watch Thank You Del: The Story of the Del Close Marathon

Thank You Del: The Story of the Del Close Marathon is a 2016 documentary film that takes audiences inside the world of improvisational comedy, exploring the life and legacy of Del Close, one of the most influential figures in the industry. The film is directed by Todd Bieber and examines the creation and continuation of the annual Del Close Marathon, an event in which improvisational comedy teams from around the world gather to perform and celebrate the art form.

The documentary is constructed through a series of interviews with members of the improv comedy community, as well as archival footage of Close himself. It offers a glimpse into the world of improv comedy, laying out the basic tenets of the art form and explaining its appeal to both performers and audiences alike. The film also chronicles Close's journey from troubled youth to comedy mentor, detailing his impact on such famous faces as Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler.

Throughout the film, the Del Close Marathon serves as a unifying thread, connecting the many stories of its participants and highlighting the ways in which improvisational comedy can bring people together. The documentary is structured around the 2015 Marathon, which took place in New York City and marked the 17th consecutive year of the event. As the Marathon unfolds, audiences are introduced to a cast of colorful characters, from seasoned veterans to fresh-faced newbies, who come together to perform and celebrate the art of improv.

The film features several standout interviews, including chats with Andrew Alexander, the CEO and executive producer of Second City; Anthony Atamanuik, the creator and star of Comedy Central's The President Show; and Claire Ayoub, a performer and writer who has been part of the Upright Citizens Brigade comedy troupe since 2008. These interviews provide valuable insight into the world of improv comedy, as well as the challenges and rewards of performing in front of live audiences.

The heart of the documentary, however, is its focus on Del Close. From his early life as a troubled youth to his storied career as a comedian and improvisation guru, Close emerges as a complex and fascinating figure. The film presents Close as a man who was equal parts genius and wild card, a fiercely creative artist whose methods often bordered on the absurd. His impact on the world of improv comedy is undeniable, and the documentary does an excellent job of honoring his legacy while also acknowledging the many controversies and contradictions that surrounded his life and career.

Overall, Thank You Del: The Story of the Del Close Marathon is an engaging, well-crafted documentary that offers a glimpse into the world of improvisational comedy. It celebrates the art form and its practitioners, while also acknowledging the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing a career in comedy. Fans of improv comedy will undoubtedly find much to love here, as will anyone with an interest in the creative process or the world of entertainment.

Thank You Del: The Story of the Del Close Marathon is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.