Film Overview"Asssscat" is a 2007 American funny film directed by Eric Cochran and produced by Shannon O'Neill. Basically, it is an hour and a half of unscripted improvisational comedy performed by the Upright Citizen's Brigade, an improv performers that stemmed from Chicago in the early 90s. The film catches among the group's popular Sunday night "Asssscat 3000" shows in New York.
Comedic Style and PerformanceThe movie's comedic instructions hinges on the 'improv live roulette', which is where the players carry out with no prepared script and base their sketches on audience tips. The performers on the night of shooting included Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh, all co-founders of UCB, together with visitor entertainers Andrew Daly and Horatio Sanz. A significant function of "Asssscat" is the inclusion of 'monologists', who add to the performance by telling a true, personal anecdote that the improvisers then utilize to fuel their funny sketches. Guest monologists included Thomas Lennon and Chad Carter.
Critical ResponseBoth critics and audiences were usually favorable about the film. The majority of applauded the unscripted genius of the entertainers and their capability to produce humorous scenarios on the area. However, some mentioned that specific segments didn't translate as well on movie as they would in a live setting. Those not familiar with UCB's design may find the jokes to be too mystical or 'in-jokey', but fans of the group and improv funny in general found it highly amusing.
Secret Scenes and MomentsThroughout the film, there are moments of sheer comedic sparkle that highlight the essence of UCB's improv style. The spectacle starts with Matt Besser drawing out a container of audience tips. He reads out 'suggestion slips', that include random words, expressions, or punchlines, and the performers need to then produce sketches based on these picked slips.
One of the standout series involved a sketch about a strange seagull, motivated by a story told by the monologists. The appeal lies in the unforeseeable appeal of improv, where the entertainers fluidly evolve the story, details, characters, and punchlines crafted from a single thread of suggestion.
Another unforgettable scene is the 'undetectable canine' sketch, which underlines the quick thinking and inventiveness of the entertainers.
Conclusion"Asssscat" intends to bottle the lightning in a bottle that is the raw and ephemeral nature of improv, providing audiences a look of a UCB 'Asssscat 3000' performance from the comfort of their living-room. While it may not change the experience of viewing UCB live, the movie however showcases the unique mix of spontaneity, hilarity, absurdity, and imagination that the group brings to the table. It's a distinctive comedy movie that oozes beauty from the talents of its entertainers and their capability to draw laughter from the unlikeliest of circumstances. Whether you're a fan of UCB or brand-new to improv, "Asssscat" manages to bring a slice of the raw energy and inventiveness of improvised funny to the screen.
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