Open Mic

This documentary is filled with gems from some of the best stand-up comedians in the world, including Dave Chappelle -- before he got famous. Don't want to spoil it, but his stories on how he broke into the world of comedy are hysterical. The late Richard Jeni shares his insight on the craft of stand-up comedy, and highlights the obstacles and triumphs an aspiring comic will experience. Then there's Dan and Butch. The film follows the two struggling comics as they vie for stage time anywhere they can get it. Butch is a very very funny guy and Dan is not so much. He's kinda like the American Idol characters with no talent, but Dan is likable, and he wants to be a stand up comedian so bad, that you can't help relating to his journey. The cons of this film are the production quality. I would have rated it a 10 if the audio was better, but since the film is filled with so many poignant moments, I was able to overlook this shortcoming... the story and nuggets of thought-provoking commentary on the American obsession with the pursuit of fame at any cost are A+.