Margaret Cho: psyCHO

Margaret Cho: psyCHO is a stand-up comedy film based on Margaret Cho's stand-up routine. The film was shot during Cho's 2015 "The psyCHO Tour" and released on Showtime in the same year. Margaret Cho is an American comedian, actress, singer, and writer known for her frank, no-holds-barred style of comedy.

The film opens with footage from one of Cho's gigs in San Francisco, where she introduces herself and her Korean heritage, setting the tone for the rest of the film. Cho frequently explores her identity and her experiences as a Korean-American woman, discussing everything from the pressures of coming out as gay to her parents, to her struggles with body image and eating disorders.

Throughout the film, Cho covers a wide range of topics, touching on everything from celebrity culture to politics. She offers her take on the Kardashians, impersonates her mother's Korean accent, and delivers a brilliant impression of Miley Cyrus. Cho is unafraid to tackle serious topics, too, such as rape culture and the Jian Ghomeshi scandal. Her approach is always honest and unflinching, but peppered with enough humor and wit to keep the audience engaged.

Cho's performance is high-energy and irreverent, and is sure to impress those who are familiar with her brand of humor. There is never a dull moment during the show, as Cho keeps the jokes coming with a rapid-fire cadence. She is adept at combining humor with commentary on social issues, often drawing big laughs from the audience while making a pointed critique of contemporary society.

The film is shot in a stand-up comedy style, with Cho speaking directly to the audience. The camerawork is simple, but effective, placing the focus squarely on Cho's performance. The editing is tight, with the film clocking in at just under an hour and a half. This helps to maintain the pace, ensuring that the audience's attention never drifts.

Cho's performance is not without its flaws, however. At times, her jokes can feel a little over the top, bordering on caricature. The film's title, with its nod to psychological disorders, suggests that Cho is exploring the darker aspects of her personality. And while there are certainly moments of introspection in the film, they are often overshadowed by Cho's loud delivery and exaggerated physical comedy.

Additionally, some of the material in the film may be offensive to some viewers. Cho is known for pushing the boundaries with her jokes, and she does not shy away from controversial topics. She frequently drops F-bombs and uses sexually charged language, which may not be to everyone's taste. Cho's humor is not for the faint of heart, and the film's R-rating is well deserved.

Overall, Margaret Cho: psyCHO is a must-see for fans of the comedian. Her performance is bold and confident, and her jokes are both insightful and hilarious. However, those who are not familiar with her style may find the film a bit overwhelming. Cho's humor is blunt and unapologetic, and may turn off viewers who are looking for something more gentle and lighthearted.

For those who are curious about Cho but not ready to dive into her stand-up routine, the film is still worth a look. It offers a raw, unfiltered look at one of the most fearless comedians of our time, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who watch it.