Undisputably Funny - Comedy At Its Best (Michael McIntyre Live & Laughing (DVD))

Member Name: sheepster76

Product:	Michael McIntyre Live & Laughing (DVD)
Date:	22/06/09 (33 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Largely family friendly, Hilariously funny, Includes McIntyre's appearance on Live At The Apollo

Disadvantages: Few DVD extras

Micheal McIntyre

Micheal McIntyre is a relativly new character in the comedy world, but is fast becoming one of the most memorable stand-up comedians of the modern stage. He's already done shows such as Mock The Week and Have I Got News For You, and is already my favourite comdial at the moment. When I first saw him on Live At The Apollo I was left wanted so much more, so I didn't hesitate to purchase this DvD as soon as it came out. As it turns out, I still want more.

The Performance

The DVD is as simple as you could expect; aside from a short sketch at the beginning the main feature of the DVD is simply McIntyre performing basic stand-up at the Hammersmith Apollo. It's the same concept as Live At The Apollo, and whilst it may be without the special effects or events of some shows, it is still immensly watchable and enjoyable. The performance itself is similarly very simple, McIntyre rarely uses the audience or one-liners, but sticks to his own stories and anecdotes (whether they are true or not isn't relevant).

McIntyre brillianty uses the once mundane events of everyday life in his performance, such as overtaking tractors on country lanes, and turns them into truly stomach-aching moments. By doing this he makes a special connection with the audience, because they can relate to what he is talking about; when watching this with my family there was a constanst stream of, "Oh yes, I've done that!", and "I hate it when that happens". Whilst laughing at his experience, you also laugh at your own, not in an embarrased way, but in a funny way.
It's not just the content which makes this performance special, but the man himself. He comes across as a seemingly endlessly cheerful person and a likable one too. I prefer this approach rather than the somewhat more gloomy approach of some comedians, Jack Dee comes to mind. His ability to let us laugh at his stupidity and misfortune without being derogatory is what really allows one to enjoy his performance. So many comedians resort to crude and swear-filled jokes; I never feel totally comfortable during these sort of performances, but McIntrye's is a breath of fresh air when it comes to delivering comedy without the use of crude jokes. Whilst not the best, his timing definitely adds to the show rather than take away from it (there are still punchlines here and there which I feel could have a much better impact after a second or two pause).

Conclusion

If you're a comedy fan then there is no excuse not to add this DVD to your collection, so if you haven't, go and do it now. If you've never though of yourself as a stand-up person, or just haven't been introduced to it, then this is the perfect place to start. It's good, simple comedy, whilst also being family friendly and immensly enjoyable at the same time. I felt comfortable watching this with my parents and family apart from one section towards the end, but this is still largely suitable for the whole family - that is if you don't mind the occsional swear word. I realise that it shouldn't make a difference, but compared to most comedy at the moment this is much lighter and no-where near as crude.

DVD Infomation

1. Main feature Runtime: 1h 24mins
2. Subtitles: none
3. Bonus Feature of McIntyre's Performance on Live At The Apollo. Runtime: 29mins
4. Rated 15: Contains Strong Language


What The Others Said

" One of the most gifted performers to emerge for years" Evening Standard
"Supremely skilled, spontaneously funny stand-up" The Times

"Makes you laugh until your face hurts" The Scotsman
"The most belly laughs per minute" The Independant

"Inhabits the stage like he was born there" The Guardian

Summary: My favourite comedian of the times brings all his best content onto one truly brilliant show.