
Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT

Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT
"Renegade Improv Comedy"
Where to Watch Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT

Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT is a riotous and riveting showcase of improvisation comedy at its best. This comedy-genre film was released in 2008, featuring exemplary comedic talents like Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and other talented performers of the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB) group.
This film explores the veritable comedy powerhouse that is the Upright Citizens Brigade. Founded by comedians Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, Matt Besser and Matt Walsh, the UCB is a highly influential improv group that has been a cornerstone in the comedic industry, absurdist humor, and has been a training ground for some of the biggest names in comedy today.
Capturing one of UCB's trademark shows, ASSSSCAT, the film is a recorded performance of their unique, no-holds-barred, long-form improvisation show. The essence of an ASSSSCAT show is its fleeting nature where each show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, never to be repeated verbatim. The Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT movie draws its audience into the glorious uncertainty of comedic performance through its unscripted and unplanned nature, where creativity and entertainers’ instincts are the only guides.
The film’s structure involves a rotating cast of talented performers initiating the show with individual, authentic monologues inspired by deliberated audience suggestions. These monologues, insightful and often deeply personal, catalyze surreal scenes filled with singular energy and a mirthful exploration of various themes and ideas. Following the opening act, the impeccably-tuned ensemble leaps at the chance to spin improvised narrative gold from it. The result is an array of laugh-out-loud moments resulting from the dynamic interplay between the various troupe members.
Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT features a lineup of guest monologists that includes comedy luminaries such as SNL alumni Rachel Dratch and Horatio Sanz, and a special guest appearance by Thomas Lennon from Reno 911!. The cast also features performers like Chad Carter and Sean Conroy, alongside a wealth of other notable comedic guest stars.
This film was directed by Eric Martin, a celebrated figure within the comedy world who brings together various branches of humor - from stand-up to sketchy optics - to create this delightful comedic spectacle.
Amy Poehler’s comedic style, renowned for its often silly, magnetic, and engaging qualities, shines throughout the film. Poehler, along with Besser and Roberts, brings their comic genius to the fore, ensuring that UCB: ASSSSCAT is undeniably a laughter-inducing, unmissable comedy carnival.
Moreover, Matt Besser’s unique comedic style plays a pivotal role in the success of this film. Known for his decades-long improvisational comedy career, Besser’s quick wit, uncanny ability to morph into myriad eccentric characters, and his mastery in harvesting humor from the minutiae of human behaviors, his contribution to the film is astoundingly distinctive and unforgettable.
Ian Roberts' contributions shouldn't be overlooked either. Famous for his gruff charm, cutting observations, Roberts' comedic influence is markedly felt, adding his share of unpredictability and confusion to the proceedings. His compellingly surprising style is placed front and center, and viewers will undoubtedly be left with their sides aching from laughter.
Beyond being simply hilarious, Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT gives its audience a peek into the creative process of improv, highlighting the intellectual agility and depth of talent needed to create brilliant comedy on the spot. It is a masterclass in improv and a tribute to the unwritten rules of comedy.
In conclusion, Upright Citizens Brigade: ASSSSCAT offers a blend of insightful monologues, ingenious spontaneity, and rapid-fire exchanges that makes it a timeless comedic masterpiece. This film is a must-watch for its unique portrayal of improvisation, offering audiences a look at the thrilling unpredictability of the art form in all its glory. From fans of improv comedy to those looking for a hearty laugh, this movie is sure to leave every viewer thoroughly entertained.
