In New York City in 1980, Dexter Mitchell plays half-willing big brother to his neighbors, a trio of exchange students from the People's Republic of China.
In the late 1950s, a fresh, unconventional style of standup comedy emerged in sharp contrast to the standard "Take my wife, please" approach. It tackled such previously taboo subjects as sex, religion, drugs, and politics, and ushered in an avant-garde era of comedy that was decidedly more cerebral, satirical, and improvisational than before. Here are many of the maverick comedians who took those big risks years ago and paved the way for today’s current crop of outrageous, in-your-face comics. Many of these rare television performances have not been seen in 30 or 40 years. Carl Reiner & Mel Brooks (1966) Jackie Mason (1961) Bob Newhart (1966) Shelly Berman (1966) Bill Cosby (1965) Jonathan Winters (1961) Smothers Brothers (1974) Steve Martin (1977) Rowan & Martin (1964) Lily Tomlin (1975) George Carlin (1967 & 1975) Richard Pryor (1967 & 1974) Andy Kaufman (1977) Hendra & Ullett (1966) Billy Crystal (1976) Jay Leno (1978) David Letterman (1979)
With "Goat Boy" and "The Joe Pesci Show" skits, Jim Breuer rose to fame during his short stint on Saturday Night Live. After leaving the show under cloudy circumstances, Breuer set out on the road. This concert film captures his high-energy performance at the Irving Plaza in New York City. He tackles topics like the band AC/DC and pregnancy, and tells a story about how he had a very bad night involving too much tequila at a party.
Fourteen year old go racecar enthusiast Marc Benton (Randy Shelly) attempts to raise enough money to buy his own go cart and compete in a local go cart race. Though at first it looks like Marc's dream is a long shot, his goal comes into reach when he befriends kindly track manager Buddy (Priscilla Barnes) and lands a job repairing race-damaged go carts
Funny is the only word that truly captures John Heffron (well, MESSY if you ask his wife). Hailing from the small town of South Lyon, MI (Detroit just sounds tougher), John's middle class upbringing has shaped his comedic voice. His attention to detail and his ability to poke fun at those things that make each of us a little crazy is what has made this stand-up veteran a favorite on stage. When John opens his mouth, you will immediately wonder if he has been spying on your life. Whether talking about your childhood or living in your marriage...he just knows what makes us tick. Truly a talented comedian on every level, give yourself the gift of John, sit back and enjoy.