Watch When Jews Were Funny

When Jews Were Funny is a 2013 documentary film that explores the role of Jewish comedians in American culture. The film is directed by Alan Zweig and features interviews with several notable Jewish comedians, including Marc Maron, Gilbert Gottfried, and Rodney Dangerfield. The film begins by examining the roots of Jewish comedy, tracing them back to the Yiddish theater of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From there, the film explores the rise of Jewish comedians in radio and television, and their impact on popular culture.

One of the key themes of When Jews Were Funny is the idea that Jewish humor is rooted in the experience of living as a minority in America. Many of the comedians interviewed in the film talk about growing up in Jewish neighborhoods and feeling like outsiders in the broader culture. They also talk about the importance of Jewish identity in shaping their comedy.

The film features several fascinating interviews with comedians who have passed away, including Shelley Berman, Henny Youngman, and Jack Carter. These interviews offer insights into the history of Jewish comedy and the role that these comedians played in shaping the culture of their time.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that there is no one "Jewish comedy." Instead, the film celebrates the diversity of styles and approaches that Jewish comedians have brought to the stage over the years. Some, like Lenny Bruce, used comedy to challenge social norms and speak truth to power, while others, like Rodney Dangerfield, used humor as a way to poke fun at themselves and the absurdities of everyday life.

Throughout the film, the comedians share their thoughts on a range of topics, from the rise of political correctness to the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. They also discuss how their own experiences have shaped their comedy, and how they have influenced one another over the years.

Despite the serious subject matter, When Jews Were Funny is a highly entertaining film. The interviews are often hilarious, featuring some of the sharpest and wittiest minds in comedy. The film is also beautifully shot, with stunning footage of Jewish communities across America.

Overall, When Jews Were Funny is an engaging and insightful look at the role of Jewish comedy in American culture. Whether you are a fan of these comedians or simply fascinated by the history of comedy, this film is sure to entertain and enlighten.

When Jews Were Funny is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.