Watch The King of Comedy

In Martin Scorsese's dark comedy "The King of Comedy," we are introduced to Rupert Pupkin (Robert De Niro), a delusional and aspiring stand-up comedian who is obsessed with becoming famous. Pupkin lives with his mother and spends most of his time rehearsing his routines and fantasizing about being a guest host on "The Jerry Langford Show," the most popular late-night talk show on television hosted by comedian and entertainer Jerry Langford (Jerry Lewis).

Despite his lack of talent and experience, Pupkin is convinced he deserves a spot on the show, and so he does everything in his power to get the attention of the host. When Langford refuses to acknowledge or give him a chance, Pupkin decides to take matters into his own hands, kidnapping Langford in an attempt to get himself on the show.

Throughout the film, we see the consequences of a culture obsessed with fame and the lengths people will go to in order to achieve it. Pupkin's delusions and fantasies are played out for the viewers, showing the audience the dangers of unchecked ambition and the desperate pursuit of attention.

De Niro's performance as Rupert Pupkin is a tour de force, displaying his range as an actor in both comedic and dramatic scenes. He effortlessly switches between the character's delusional fantasies and the harsh realities of his situation, creating a nuanced and complex portrayal of a man on the brink of insanity.

Jerry Lewis brings his own experience as a legendary comedian to the role of Jerry Langford, presenting a sympathetic yet jaded view of the world of entertainment. Diahnne Abbott plays Rita, Pupkin's love interest, and although her role is small, she portrays a grounded and pragmatic counterpoint to Pupkin's delusions.

Scorsese's direction is masterful, his careful attention to detail and pacing bring to life a world of desperation, obsession, and the American dream of fame. The film's use of color and light add to its surreal and unsettling tone, highlighting the contrast between Pupkin's fantasies and the world around him.

"The King of Comedy" is a timeless commentary on our culture's obsession with fame and celebrity, and the dangers that come with it. Scorsese's dark comedy is a must-see for fans of his work, De Niro's performances, and those interested in the darker aspects of the entertainment industry. With its biting satire and masterful direction, "The King of Comedy" remains a classic film that resonates just as strongly today as it did upon its initial release.

The King of Comedy is a 1983 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8 and a MetaScore of 73.