I Am Road Comic

I Am Road Comic is a 2014 documentary that delves into the world of stand-up comedy and the grind that comes with trying to become a successful comic. Directed by Jordan Brady, the movie features interviews with several comedians, including Maria Bamford, W. Kamau Bell, and Doug Benson, as they share their experiences on the road, from the small clubs to the big stages.

The film begins with the voice of comedian Marc Maron, who talks about the importance of being a road comic, someone who lives out of a suitcase and travels from town to town to perform. He describes it as a way of life, one that is not for everyone, but for those who are dedicated to the craft of making people laugh.

From there, the film introduces us to several comedians who are currently on the road, performing at various clubs across the country. Maria Bamford, known for her unique and often surreal style of comedy, is one of the first comedians we meet. She talks about how she got started in the business and the challenges she faced along the way.

As the film progresses, we get to hear from other comedians who share their own stories of life on the road. W. Kamau Bell, who is known for his politically-charged comedy, talks about how he had to adjust his act when he started to perform in more conservative parts of the country. He describes the struggle of trying to connect with audiences who may not share his views, but ultimately he is able to find a way to make them laugh.

Doug Benson, who is known for his love of marijuana, talks about how he incorporates his love of weed into his act. He shares some funny stories about performing in states where marijuana is still illegal, and the challenges he faces when trying to find a decent place to smoke.

Throughout the film, we see these comedians as they travel from town to town, performing at clubs big and small. We see the highs and lows of their careers, from the thrill of performing in front of a packed house, to the disappointment of playing to a half-empty room. We also see the camaraderie that exists among comedians, as they support each other through the good times and the bad.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it shines a light on the business side of comedy. We see how comedians have to hustle to get gigs, negotiating their own contracts and promoting their own shows. We also see how important it is for comedians to build relationships with club owners, as they are the ones who can provide them with steady work.

Overall, I Am Road Comic is an engaging and insightful look at the world of stand-up comedy. It gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a road comic, and the challenges they face along the way. Through the stories of these comedians, we see the dedication and hard work that goes into trying to make it in this business, and the joy that comes when all of that work pays off.