This documentary follows Jerry Seinfeld returning to stand-up after his retirement from his hit sit-com Seinfeld. Along with stand-up newcomer Orny Adams and several stand-up veterans, we’re shown the method and misery behind this mad profession.

 

Though director Christian Charles never again approached the success of this film, Comedian is a gem that was always likely to be the crown jewel. With documentaries, we always question just what narrow view of the world is provided us, but Comedian has enough moments to make it feel honest.

 

Fair warning: The end of the film features a conversation with Bill Cosby, Seinfeld’s idol as a stand-up comedian. This film was made prior to Cosby’s later fall from fame and incarceration. Knowing this, and knowing what Cosby formerly meant to Seinfeld as well as Cosby fans at the time, this one-on-one is an important moment both for Seinfeld and the movie.