Bitter Jester

Noteworthy for so many reasons, (not the least of which being a heartbreaking cameo from Richard Pryor,) Bitter Jester ostensibly delves into the highs and lows of struggling along the comedy circuit. Beautiful and outrageously talented Maija experiences a crisis of conscience

and seeks to find center again by making a documentary of (in roughly this

order) her youth, parents, rise on the comedy scene, implosion on said scene, psychotherapy, meeting her homicidal boyfriend, using his contacts to talk to other comedians about their experiences, feuding with Jerry Seinfeld, cross

country trips, her boyfriends potential gay lover, etc. Needless to say, it feels a bit scattered. But amidst the clutter, there is a beautiful film in here. If only the filmmakers had been able to polish and edit the material down and stick to the heart of the issue. The access they had to notable comedians (and comediennes) is staggering

and worth watching for that reason alone. And Maija's journey from shattered

ego to eventual rebirth is inspiring for any artist. It is mostly Ken Simmons that seems to derail this particular train, physically, emotionally, verbally. The man is a juggernaut, barreling through life like the minotaur. Admirable in its way, I mean, he is the reason we even get to see

Richard Pryor in all his decimated glory, but truly the film spends to much time dealing with him, his ego, and his exploits. Inspiring if a little flawed, Bitter Jester is a film you must see if you are an aspiring comedian, an artist, or just a caring, feeling human being.

I don't know if this documentary is available anywhere, but this film does have elements worth checking out if you can find it, especially if you are prepared for the amateur film making and the overpowering, and sometimes nerve wracking, presence of star-by-proxy Kenneth Simmons. I caught this at the 2003 New York Film Festival and met with many of the members of the production in the theater after the screening. I can vouch that they are the real deal. In fact, they may have even edited out some things to make it more palatable.

I agree with Soybomb89's excellent review, so refer to that for more details. Suffice to say, this film is like watching a train wreck, both fascinating and yet tragically nauseating at the same time. I would not fault someone for hating it, it shows they have a soul, but there are many redeeming qualities about it as well. A hilarious interview with Gilbert Godfried comes to mind. I also think director Maija Di Giorgio is to be commended for working well with limited resources, especially experience. Given more of the latter, I believe she could become an excellent filmmaker.

Maija really delivers in this short film/documentary.

Who would have known that this real-life comic could be so good at telling and directing a real-life documentary. Her talent really shines in this film on all levels.

Bitter Jester has lot's of famous comedian characters in it. It is interesting how these band of brothers/sisters stick together event through fame and even misfortune.

Bitter Jester was very interesting and entertaining to say the least. A real original!

Well written with a good story line - I highly recommend especially if you want to get into comedy.

An interesting look at comedians and what isn't always shown on stage in their personal lives. This movie follows one comedienne Maija, who achieved fame and prestige and almost too early in her career and had to reinvent herself as a comedian.

The movie is full of interviews with an A-list of performers, Whoopi Goldberg, Chevy Chase, Jerry Stiller, Rita Rudner, Richard Belzer, Christopher Titus Lisa Lampenelli, and two of my favorites George Carlin and Richard Pryor. I think this is one of the last interviews of Richard Pryor.

If you want to see the drama that begets comedy, you'll love this one.

Bitter Jester is one-of-a-kind for many reasons. The all-star cast, the never-seen-before behind-the-scenes look at the world of comedy, the precious interview with Richard Pryor and the enduring strength of its director and star Maija DiGiorgio. Maija takes us on a personal journey through the world of comedy sharing her victories and brick walls, and the advice and guidance she receives from a cast of well-known comics. Maija is a gorgeous woman! She's got obvious energy for her work and throws herself into this movie with deep honesty that shows through as she chronicles her victories and frustrations. A follow-up to Bitter Jester is in order – I hope with Maija's talent to see her directing, acting and producing. She has a knack and her passion shows through in this film. She's not a talent to shelve, but should be allowed to express her passion!