Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Jim Gaffigan...then some missing links?
"Jim Gaffigan vs. Offended Christian". Posted 10 February 2008. YouTube video, accessed 31 March 2009. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKWnH-3v0pk&feature=related
Jim Gaffigan is well known for his commentary on the everyday, such as his now famous bit on Hot Pockets. However, that type of comedy aside, Gaffigan is also known for his routines on religion, specifically Catholicism (as he was born and raised). In some routines he comments on the ridiculousness of Christian holiday traditions, as well as how the Pope is the "Catholic superhero." In this audio clip, however, he is not doing standup; rather, he is a guest on a radio show. After apparently making some brazen remarks about religion, an angered Christian woman calls in to confront him. Gaffigan relays some incredibly offensive retorts, all based on the topic of religion. He also raises the question of whether or not God has a sense of humor--an interesting concept, especially when viewed in the context of comedy.
Also, SIDE NOTE: These links didn't show up in some other posts...
"Creation Science 101"
"Thanks, Bumper Stickers!"
Sorry!
Creation Science 101
"'Creation Science 101' by Roy Zimmerman". Posted 26 February 2007. YouTube video, accessed 31 March 2009.
Roy Zimmerman is a little-known comedian who uses his musical adeptness and his ability to tackle and unpack issues like the Bush Administration, Creationism, and 9/11 to create witty and effective satire through song. He uses several different styles, ranging from early rock/rockabilly to psychedelic, depending on the styles' usefulness in relation to the song's topic (i.e., country western for a song about Bush). In this song, titled "Creation Science 101", Zimmerman discusses the flaws in teaching Creation Science (religion-based "science") as the sole material in classrooms across the country. When he introduces the song, he speaks almost purely in sarcasm, adding in some quips about how "observable reality" and "imperical inquiry" are, according to Creationists, mythical. In the song, Zimmerman assumes the character of a Creationist who truly believes in Intelligent Design, and who "has truth because [he] believe[s]." This video successfully outlines the two "layers" of his satire, targeting a specific brunt of the joke (even going into detail such as why fossils exist), and directs it towards a liberal audience who will "get it".
Waiting...
This film features two young men with their life being a waiter at Shenaniganz but also opening up their minds and exploring life. Teenagers who do not have a purpose in life will get inspired by watching this film. Humor is used to show the social corrective throughout the story. Dean (Justin Long) has been working at the diner for four years ever since he graduated high school. Yet, he has not earned any special degree in his community college. Another young man Monty (Ryan Reynolds) is in a similar situation as Dean but more dependent to the diner and loves girls. Their destiny is never found unless they start opening up the roads in front of them. Their trouble is shown by using the diner and the food as the main instrument to show humorous acts. The customers in the diner show variety of people which in real life happen in restaurants. This movie also illustrates that fun must be earned in one’s life, just as the waiters party after work. Although it may contain ridiculous scenes that are almost absurd, this hilarious story illustrates the happiness after the hardness one must go through in life.
Waiting…. Dir. Rob McKittrick. Perf. Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, Justin Long, Dane Cook, and Chi McBride. DVD Lionsgate, 2005.
Toothpaste for Dinner
"Thanks Bumper Stickers!" Toothpaste For Dinner. 2 Sept. 2003. 31 Mar. 2009
The web comic Toothpaste for Dinner is a collection of poorly drawn, one-frame comics. The artist, know simply as "Drew", seems to pride himself on and derive his humor from brazen sarcasm, as well as pointing out obvious, yet ridiculous societal flaws. Drew is also known for the web comics Married to the Sea and Superpoop, which are also known for similar methods (one-frame comics) and the same sarcastic and sometimes absurd sense of humor. The Toothpaste for Dinner comic "Thanks Bumper Stickers!" (seen above) highlights the pointlessness of the marketing of religion (Christianity in particular), as well as religious recruitment efforts. The dry and sarcastic humor showcased in this comic is appropriate, as it further illustrates Drew's frustration and even anger towards the constant warping and packaging of religion (which is a view shared by many).
The Catherine Tate Show: Did You Hear about Our John?
The Catherine Tate Show was a multiple award-winning television sketch comedy program created by and starring Irish Comedian Catherine Tate that ran for three series (seasons) on BBC Two from 2004 to 2007. The program primarily deals with situations in everyday life. Recurring characters in the series include Lauren Cooper, a typical "punk" teenage girl, and Joannie "Nan" Taylor, an Irish grandmother who often swears and criticizes those around her. This particular clip deals with a smaller character, John Reilly, and his mother. John is a teenager in Northern Ireland, who decides that it is finally time for him to "come out of the closet." He comes out to his mother, expecting her to reject him, or worse, throw him out of the house. To his surprise, she accepts him fully, perhaps even a little too enthusiastically. The rest of the skits that deal with the story show how much John's mother tries to accept him. This particular skit deals with two subjects in identity politics, specifically, sexual identity. First of all, it makes fun of the fear that many gays and lesbians may have about coming out in this day and age, while also poking fun at a sort of "sympathetic homophobia" that some people may have (i.e. they attempt to hide their homophobia by attempting to treat those they subconsciously don't accept nicely through stereotypes).
Tate, Catherine, prod. The Catherine Tate Show. BBC Two. 26 Oct. 2006. YouTube. 11 Jan. 2008. 31 Mar. 2009.
Sarah Silverman: Fundraiser for Katrina
"Sarah Silverman: Fundraiser For Katrina". Posted 19 November 2006. YouTube video, accessed 29 March 2009.
Sarah Silverman sparks controversy with her stand up comedy routines often based on themes such as racial discrimination, sex and religion. Silverman's operates slyly. Attractive appearance and meek in voice and delivery; it can be questionable how Silverman appears to endorse discrimination in every light; but she does, and has no problem with it. She has been the center of multiple controversial statements, criticized in Hollywood and even by the Catholic Church. She is best known for her work as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live, and now stars in and produces, The Sarah Silverman Program on Comedy Central. Sarah Silverman takes the stage in November of 2006, for the stand up show, “Comic Relief for Katrina.” Within her routine, Silverman often references her Jewish heritage. She goes as far as saying, “Even when my great-great-great grandmother was being rapped[by Mongols] she thought, this is going to be funny one day.” Her apathetic attitude to the most strong subjects, turn some viewers sour. For example, in record to the fighting overseas she states, “I love how Palestinians and Jews hate each other. Its like sweet potatoes hating yams.” Silverman, although criticized by many, continues to gain quite a large following and grasps onto success for now.
George Carlin on religion
George Carlin is one of the most well known stand-up comedians. In this scene, taken from the DVD Jamin’ in New York, George Carlin talks about the religious dogma of all organized religions. He criticizes and pokes fun at many holy books such as the Bible, Torah, and Koran. He satirizes the basic idea of organized religion by mocking all religious figures as the kings of “crap”, and mocking the idea of god as both a loving figure, and one who will banish you to hell. George Carlin is known for the emotion that he puts behind his jokes. Carlin’s jokes cover a wide range of themes, from religion, to drugs, sex, politics, fame, society, language, and the events of everyday life. George Carlin often did stand-up in front of a diverse audience. Even after his death, Carlin’s humor is watched by many.
Jamin' in New York. Prod. Jerry Hamaz and Brenda Carlin. Perf. George Carlin. DVD. Atlantic/WEA, 1992. YouTube. 07 Feb. 2009. 31 Mar. 2009.
Yo Mama-MTV
"The Defeated Speak." Yo Mama. MTV. Yo Mama Atlanta: The Best of the Week, Atlanta, Georgia. 7 May 2007.
Yo Momma is an United States comical TV game show that was produced and hosted by Wilmer Valderrama. Valderrama is best known for his character Fez on the hit TV series, “That 70’s Show. Yo Mama follows Valderrama across country as he seeks to find the best, “Yo Mama” joke teller in the region. Once the best joke tellers are found, Wilmer takes the finalists to their rivals' homes, to trace embarrassing life details; the finalists two kids then pair off in a three-round insult-off the urban streets of Los Angeles. In my opinion, this show would have been cool if it was aired over ten years ago. Even though the show is no longer on the air, the jokes are distasteful and to no degree considered funny by the adult population. This show would attract the younger generations; those who seem to tell old school jokes such as these. For those who do find the show comical, this is a different type of comedy than that of what comedians perform. The finalists have not been trained or received lessons to perform; they simply have the talent to make it through Valderramas judgment of who is the best “Yo Mammer”
Whose Line Is It Anyways?
Whose Line Is It Anyways? ."Season 6, Episode 13. Fox Family, Drew Carry. 04 June 2007. Viewed 30 March 2009.
“Whose Line Is it Anyways” is a short-form improvisational television show aired on Fox Family Channel hosted by Drew Carry. The show features four selected comedians who, over the course of the show play different characters, sing songs on the spot, and create multiple situations, all within three to four minute improvisational games These games are based on audience opinions or by the host, Mr. Carry, himself. This thirty minute game ends with a winner; one who has won the most “points.” However, the as Drew Carry states, “the points have no meaning.” In the episode I have chosen, the men create an infomercial on excessive arm hair based on random items in a box. The game is really created to be silly and not taken seriously, I would not say that it offends people, or makes anyone feel abnormally uncomfortable. The show defiantly targets young adults and adolescent, because it is an appropriate comedic show that has hardly any controversies.
The Daily Show uses humor and satire to poke fun at modern day events and the news media. In this particular piece we find “twitter” the newest text message phenomenon on the table for discussion. Congressmen, instead of paying attention to Barak Obama at the state of the Union address are “twittering” away on their cell phones. The men who supposedly lead the nation are not even abiding by what many consider to be a common courtesy, turning off your cell phone. What is the deeper issue here? Possibly respect. Stewart makes a comparison form in the beginning of the report to a 7th grade classroom. How there are rules in seventh grade classrooms to avoid this behavior all together. However, after diving a bit deeper maybe it is possibly that societal norms are changing. Is what used to be considered disrespectful no longer considered rude? Now is it a socially accepted action to text someone in the middle of an important event or conversation? Stewart makes us questions what our society considers polite and rude, and how this is changing in his five minutes of commentary on twitter.
“Twitter Frenzy.” The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Comedy Central. March 2, 2009. Viewed March 31, 2009. http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=219519&title=Twitter-Frenzy
George Carlin (1937-2008)
Best Known For: George Carlin: Again! (HBO Special), Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (film) , Doin' It Again (HBO Special), Jammin' In New York (HBO Special), You Are All Diseased (HBO Special), George Carlin: 40 Years of Comedy (HBO Special).
Themes: Politics, religion, language, everyday life, drugs, sex, fame and celebrity.
Best Known For: George Carlin: Again! (HBO Special), Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (film) , Doin' It Again (HBO Special), Jammin' In New York (HBO Special), You Are All Diseased (HBO Special), George Carlin: 40 Years of Comedy (HBO Special).
Themes: Politics, religion, language, everyday life, drugs, sex, fame and celebrity.
A Presidential Candidate
Twain, Mark. "A Presidential Candidate." Tales, Speeches, Essays, and Sketches . New York: Penguin Books, 1994. Google Book Search. Google. 31 Mar. 2009 http://books.google.com/ books?id=mUYvvBE95h8C&pg=PA140&lpg=PA140&dq=A+PRESIDENTIAL+CANDIDATE.(essay+by+Ma rk+Twain&source=bl&ots=gMO7kNOPEi&sig=GgrZh8cCfMbMowqHK3kog9L1Lrc&hl=en&ei=g7vSSf GbL6CQmAfGktz3Bg&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=6&ct=result#PPA140,M1.
Mark Twain is regarded as one of the best American authors to date. Not only was he a talented writer (The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn being his most famous work), but he was very witty and wise to the way of the world, a combination that resulted in incredible satires, which lampoon the war that was going on in the Phillippines and politics. His satirical essay "A Presidential Candidate" has withstood the test of time and is as funny today as it was when he sent it to the New York Evening Post to publish in 1879. His information comes from his obsrvations on politics, specifically that it is considered less bad to be a terrible person than say your not a terrible person. Twain highlights the absurdity of this notion by announcing he is running for President, and then to cover his bases he tells everyone how he shot is grandfather, ran from Gettysburg and hates poor people. Twain is complaining that the voters are too forgiving of their politicians, ready to elect any man who the opponent can not scandalize. He wants voters to pick the official that will do the best for the nation, not the one won the mud slinging war. He hopes to persuade the audience not to get caught up in the spectacle of the race and pick the person that actually deserves to win. The target audience in this case in this case are the educated voters, which would have been white males in 1879. Since there was no television, all the news came from the newspapers, giving them considerable more power. The voters would likely agree that dirty politics is abundant. But if the voters back then are anything like they are now, its doubtful anyone would have listened.
Mark Twain is regarded as one of the best American authors to date. Not only was he a talented writer (The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn being his most famous work), but he was very witty and wise to the way of the world, a combination that resulted in incredible satires, which lampoon the war that was going on in the Phillippines and politics. His satirical essay "A Presidential Candidate" has withstood the test of time and is as funny today as it was when he sent it to the New York Evening Post to publish in 1879. His information comes from his obsrvations on politics, specifically that it is considered less bad to be a terrible person than say your not a terrible person. Twain highlights the absurdity of this notion by announcing he is running for President, and then to cover his bases he tells everyone how he shot is grandfather, ran from Gettysburg and hates poor people. Twain is complaining that the voters are too forgiving of their politicians, ready to elect any man who the opponent can not scandalize. He wants voters to pick the official that will do the best for the nation, not the one won the mud slinging war. He hopes to persuade the audience not to get caught up in the spectacle of the race and pick the person that actually deserves to win. The target audience in this case in this case are the educated voters, which would have been white males in 1879. Since there was no television, all the news came from the newspapers, giving them considerable more power. The voters would likely agree that dirty politics is abundant. But if the voters back then are anything like they are now, its doubtful anyone would have listened.
Bill Maher. Religulous. 2008
Religulous is a comedic documentary written by and starring political comedian Bill Maher. According to Bill Maher, the title is a combination of the words religion and ridiculous. This statement adequately explains the documentary. The documentary examines and satirizes organized religion and religious beliefs. In the documentary, Bill Maher travels to different religious destinations such as Jerusalem, the Vatican, and Salt Lake City, interviewing believers from a wide range of backgrounds and groups. Some of these groups include, “Jews for Jesus”, Christians, Muslims, Hassidic Jews, and Mormons. Bill Maher also travels to Speaker’s Corner (an area where public speaking is allowed) in Hyde Park, London where he satirically preaches Scientology beliefs. In addition to his documentary, Bill also performs stand-up and is hot of Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO. He performs to a multiracial, multi-ethnicaudience.
Religulous. Dir. Larry Charles. Perf. Bill Maher. Film. Lions Gate Entertainment, 2008.
Richard Dawkins reads his hate mail
In the above clip, Oxford University professor reads his hate mail out loud. Richard Dawkins is a well-known atheist and avid defender of Darwin’s theory of Evolution over the theory of creationism. This has brought him a lot of hatred from religious clergy and pro-religious organizations. In the clip, Richard Dawkins reads outs some of the most comical attacks he has received in his email. The clip deals with the eternal struggle between religion and science. Each side seeks to explain the mysteries of the universe, while trying to disprove the other side’s arguments. In this clip, the two extremes of the spectrum, with Dawkins advocating for science and the e-mailers advocating for religion. Dawkins makes frequent visits to universities around the world and gives lectures on evolution to students.
Richard Dawkins reads hate mail. Perf. Richard Dawkins. YouTube. 30 Aug. 2008. 31 Mar. 2009
Steven Lynch. “Priest”. Live at El Ray
This song is a segment taken from a DVD recording of Steven Lynch’s stand-up performance at the El Ray Theater in Los Angeles. Steven Lynch’s style of stand-up is different from the usual form of stand-up in that he performs songs instead of talking. In the posted segment, Lynch is performing a song about the “temptations” of catholic priests towards altar boys. In his performance, Lynch brings up the issue of catholic priests molesting small boys and girls. In his performance, he also brings up other issues of catholic dogma that he attempts to scrutinize in his song. Stephen Lynch’s songs often deal with a wide range of issues, from religion to politics, immigration, drugs, aids, and crime. Stephen Lynch has also been known to bring in stories from his childhood into many of his stand-up songs. He performs to a multi-ethnic but mainly white audience, and has a large following in both the United States and Europe.
Stephen Lynch, Live at El Ray. Perf. Stephen Lynch. DVD. Razor & Tie, 2004. YouTube. 19 Nov. 2007. 31 Mar. 2009
The Onion News Network posts a series of online satirical news reports mocking events around the world to prove a deeper point. This particular report touches on the hated thing that shows up in your inbox, “spam.” The report pretending “spam” is an export of a foreign country known as “KOY4GOFF” is a mock economic trade report. It argues how the U.S. government’s sanctions against its Koy4Goff are angering the countries citizens. Looking at the layer 2 argument of this report what does it really mean? Well, the main impression one gets from the piece is how silly some of these spam messages have become. The report quotes multiple citizens of KOY4GOFF who all speak in spam quotes. These people just sound goofy, for lack of a better word. These ads just turn into goofy statements that remind one of the goofy titles that fill one’s trash folder. Therefore, this only makes one wonder, why are the emails still sent out. Everyone knows what they are and only finds them annoying. Who possibly clicks on the penis enlarger pill add? Why do they still flood my inbox?
“Spam Crackdown Threatens Koy4Goff’s Penis enlarger, Free Ipod industry.” Onion News Network. The Onion. Viewed March 30th, 2009. http://www.theonion.com/content/video/spam_crackdown_threatens
“Spam Crackdown Threatens Koy4Goff’s Penis enlarger, Free Ipod industry.” Onion News Network. The Onion. Viewed March 30th, 2009. http://www.theonion.com/content/video/spam_crackdown_threatens
"Nick Cannon Presents: Wild 'N Out."Season 4, Episode 20. MTV. Director Liz Patrick. September 2007. March 2009.
Wild N Out is an MTV show hosted by Nick Cannon. It is a show where two teams of celebrity comedians (the red and black team), and one special celebrity guest, compete in “improve battles.” Wild N Out has an urban theme. The setting of the show represents the city streets where neighborhood youth get together to freestyle rap, dance, etc. The humor from the show comes from the performers thinking very quickly on their feet and coming up with witty rhymes and putting down the other team. In the episode I chose, their special guest is Kat Williams, a stand up comedian/actor/rapper from Cincinnati. The whole feel of the show is extremely fun and lighthearted. Wild N Out glamorizes and applauds customs that originated in the streets of cities in lower class areas. This message shows the importance of culture that comes from less fortunate urban communities. Because of the popularity of hip hop culture among young people,the show is directed toward a teenaged audience. Here are some clips of Kat Williams on Wild N Out:
Saturday Night Live: "Lazy Sunday"
“Lazy Sunday.” Saturday Night Live. nbc. December 17, 2005. March 30, 2009.
Lazy Sunday is a short joke rap song performed on SNL by Chris Parnell and Andy Samberg. it is about an average day in the life of two white middle class guys. The humor in this video comes from the fact that there subject material it everyday things that people can relate to. The fact that they are discussing these basic topics in hard core gangsta rap add to the humor. In the video, two boys are going to see The Chronicles of Narnia. They refer to things such as Google Maps, magnolia bakery cupcakes, sneaking food into the theater (because the theater is so overpriced), and the movie trivia questions that come up before the film starts. The purpose of this piece is to point out (and make fun of) today’s popular music. In this mock music video, they play up the role of hip hop/rap artists who take themselves very seriously even though their song is pretty much empty in meaningful content, just like a lot of music today. This piece is directed toward a young adult audience. They are the and have the greatest steak in todays pop culture.
“Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar – Understanding Philosophy Through Jokes”
“Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar – Understanding Philosophy Through Jokes”
By: Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein
(http://www.amazon.com/reader/081091493X/176-8083559-8044209?%5Fencoding=UTF8&ref%5F=sib%5Fdp%5Fpt#reader)
Every student of science is aware that there are questions that only philosophy can shed light on. However, understanding the thorny philosophical issues is a painful task for many. This is where Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein come to help with their hilarious, yet educational book: “Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar – Understanding Philosophy Through Jokes.”
The book is an introductory course to philosophy that tackles main concepts such as ethics, epistemology and logic all illustrated through jokes. The authors explain the idea behind their approach in that: “The construction and payoff of jokes and the construction and payoff of philosophical concepts are made out of the same stuff. They tease the mind in the same ways.” The book uses 143 classic jokes in ten chapters to illustrate complex philosophical concepts. It is a great source for students in particular and people in general who have difficulty figuring out what philosophy is about.
It is interesting to note that the book was rejected by 40 publishers before “Abrams Image” gave it a chance. It became an immediate best seller in many countries and was translated into 20 languages.
By: Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein
(http://www.amazon.com/reader/081091493X/176-8083559-8044209?%5Fencoding=UTF8&ref%5F=sib%5Fdp%5Fpt#reader)
Every student of science is aware that there are questions that only philosophy can shed light on. However, understanding the thorny philosophical issues is a painful task for many. This is where Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein come to help with their hilarious, yet educational book: “Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar – Understanding Philosophy Through Jokes.”
The book is an introductory course to philosophy that tackles main concepts such as ethics, epistemology and logic all illustrated through jokes. The authors explain the idea behind their approach in that: “The construction and payoff of jokes and the construction and payoff of philosophical concepts are made out of the same stuff. They tease the mind in the same ways.” The book uses 143 classic jokes in ten chapters to illustrate complex philosophical concepts. It is a great source for students in particular and people in general who have difficulty figuring out what philosophy is about.
It is interesting to note that the book was rejected by 40 publishers before “Abrams Image” gave it a chance. It became an immediate best seller in many countries and was translated into 20 languages.
Secret Stand-Up: Chelsea Handler
Chelsea Handler is best known for her performance on the Oxygen Networks TV show, Girls Behaving Badly and host of the E! talk show, Chelsea Lately. Her audience ranges from young adults, as well as those in the older population; mostly those who stay in tune with Hollywood and celebrity gossip. She is known for her promiscuous and provocative style of material. Handler brings the audience to their knees in this short stand up comedy clip, which is not usually common for a female comic to do, as this role is often taken on by male comedians. Handler begins her routine discussing her own personal story and advising women of “proper bathroom etiquette.” She makes the audience feel almost uncomfortable as she uses detail to describe one “bathroom incident” she has encountered. This would only be humorous to those who have an open mind and a good sense of humor; otherwise some might find it repulsive. In this short clip, Handler also pokes fun at new moms, and the way they alter their mannerisms when they bare child. I found this routine hilarious, and I would imagine my peers would agree that Handler is introducing a “new wave” of current comedy to the comic scene.
"Secret Stand-Up: Chelsea Handler". Posted 24 August 2008. YouTube video, accessed 29 March 2009.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' (part 1)
"Richard Pryor: Live and Smoking (Part 1)". Writ. Richard Pryor. New York, NY. 1997. March 2009.
Richard Pryor is a famous stand up comedian. He is being filmed for the first time doing stand up in "Live and Smoking." He had a very tough child hood which he mentions in his act. He lived in a whorehouse, his mother was a prostitute, and he was molested twice. He now has stand up films, “Richard Pryor Live in Concert,” “Richard Pryor Live on Sunset Strip,” and “Here and Now.” They are far less rigid than “Live and Smokin.’” In part one of "Live and Smoking," his main theme is race. Pryor discusses the neighborhood where he grew up(including his morther;s whorehouse) and he talk about the difference between white and black neighborhoods. He does cushion these remarks with various jokes, but there is still an element of discomfort to it. This discomfort is way to teach the audience a lesson about the realities of living in the slums. This piece is for an adult multiracial audience because of its mature language and content.
Mike Myers
Mike Myers (1963-)
Best Known For: Wayne’s World & Wayne’s World 2 (Film), So I married and Axe Murder (Film), Austin Powers Trilogy (Films), and Sherk (Film).
Themes: Sex, Espionage, Alcohol and Drugs, Love, and Relationships.
(Alejandro Barberi)
Best Known For: Wayne’s World & Wayne’s World 2 (Film), So I married and Axe Murder (Film), Austin Powers Trilogy (Films), and Sherk (Film).
Themes: Sex, Espionage, Alcohol and Drugs, Love, and Relationships.
(Alejandro Barberi)
Zach Galifinakis (1969-)
Best Known For: Live at the Purple Onion (DVD), Dog Bites Man (TV), Absolut Vodka Commericals (Internet), The Comedians of Comedy (DVD).
Major Themes: Absurdist Humor, Musical Comedy, Appearance, One-liners, Anger, Character humor, Audience Involvement
(Adam Ramirez)
Steve Carell (1962-)
Best Known For: 40 Year Old Virgin (film), Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (film), The Office (TV show), Evan Almighty (film), Little Miss Sunshine (film), Daily Show (as a correspondent)
Major Themes: innocence, morality, family, awkward situations, value of balance in career vs. home life
Best Known For: 40 Year Old Virgin (film), Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (film), The Office (TV show), Evan Almighty (film), Little Miss Sunshine (film), Daily Show (as a correspondent)
Major Themes: innocence, morality, family, awkward situations, value of balance in career vs. home life
Dane Cook Atheists
Dane Cook is a fairly new famous comedian who has also been the main actor in two movies: Employee of the Month and Good Luck Chuck. He has produced three comedy albums and one HBO special. In this one and a half hour stand up act, Dane Cook discusses themes such as Sex, Lying, and Religion. In his religion skit, an atheist sneezes on Dane's shoe and Dane says God Bless you. The man and Dane argue about religion and what will happen when they each die. The man says he will become a tree and be one with the earth and Dane responds, I hope you get chopped down and they print the bible on you. In this HBO special The Vicious Circle, Dane is being insightful and tries to teach the viewers not to do the stuff he talks about (cheating and going to psychics and many more common daily activities). His audience is mainly young adults and teenagers and most people agree and laugh at his jokes. This is because his jokes come from everyday basic interactions.
Dane Cook. Vicious Circle. Dir. Marty Callner. HBO September 4, 2006. DVD
Dane Cook. Vicious Circle. Dir. Marty Callner. HBO September 4, 2006. DVD
Comedian Profile on Dave Chappelle
Dave Chappelle (1973-).
Best Known For: Chappelle's Show(TV), Killin' Them Softly(Stand-up), For What It's Worth(Stand-up), Robin Hood: Men in Tights(film)
Major Themes: Racism, American politics, African American culture, pop culture, recreational drug use, human sexuality.
(Eumin Kang)
Best Known For: Chappelle's Show(TV), Killin' Them Softly(Stand-up), For What It's Worth(Stand-up), Robin Hood: Men in Tights(film)
Major Themes: Racism, American politics, African American culture, pop culture, recreational drug use, human sexuality.
(Eumin Kang)
Margaret Cho Christians have Lost Their Minds
Margaret Cho is a female actor whose main focus of comedy is based on religion. Her inspiration for making fun of Christianity is based off of Bill Hicks. Her audience is typically middle aged people with a diverse ethnic background of White, Asian, Hispanic, and African Americans. Margartet starts off her stand-up talking about how "Christian family groups are out of control, they have lost their minds" because the only reason they voted for George Bush was to make sure that gay people would not get married. She makes the joke afterwards by saying that even satanists are calling these people really mean. She also backs up her point about how Christians are crazy when they started to complain about how spongebob is gay and the show shouldnt be on TV. Margaret after wards in an angry voice screams...Spongebob is a SPONGE. Her main arguments in this joke come from her anger at how stupid these religious followers are and that they cannot think for themselves. They only beleive in what they were raised by and how this is screwing up society.
Margaret Cho. Assasins. Dir. Konda Masson. Washington DC. 2005
Margaret Cho. Assasins. Dir. Konda Masson. Washington DC. 2005
Bill Hicks on Religion
William Melvin (Bill) Hicks was a stand-up comedian born whose main subjects of comedy are religion, politics, and consumerism. In his stand-up on religion, he is completely making fun of Christianity and how stupid their beliefs are. Most of the audience are middle aged white people. One joke Hicks makes is when he says, "beliefs are odd, a lot of Christians wear crosses around there necks, do you think when Jesus comes back he ever wants to see a cross?" This joke is especially funny because Bill Hicks is making fun of Christianity the whole time and what he says actually makes sense. The man was brutally murdered on a cross, why would he want to be remembered that way? He also makes fun of Christianity when he talks about how when he made a joke in the south, three angry red necks came up to him after the show ready to beat up Bill Hicks saying, we don't like what you said about Christians and his response was... well forgive me. Thus again, making fun of the Christians beliefs of forgiveness as well as peacefulness.
Hicks, Bill. "Religion". Posted January 2008. Accessed March 22 2009.
Hicks, Bill. "Religion". Posted January 2008. Accessed March 22 2009.
Lewis Black on Religion
"Lewis Black Explains Religion". Posted 18 January 2008. YouTube video, accessed 29 March 2009.
In this video clip, comedian Lewis Black (who is generally noted for his comical anger and frustration with current events/hot topics) discusses religion. Black takes to the scientific and logical view of the world, rather than a Creationist or otherwise religious one. He pithily explains that one of the reasons he does not tend to believe in a higher being is because of, he shouts, “FOSSILS!” He also states that he does not have faith, simply because he “has thoughts.” This bit from his routine is obviously only humorous to those with like views, since religion is and has always been a hot topic. While he is not at all diplomatic in his approach to this touchy subject, the way he deals with it is humorous nonetheless because of his conciseness, tone of voice, energy, and wit.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Peet Guercio - Flirting on Myspace
Peet Guercio is a 24 year old comic who is most famous for being a prominent comedian on the website “Funny or Die”. In this bit, he discusses courting rituals on myspace, the reality of who browses the internet, the ridiculousness of profile pictures, and an encounter he had with a homosexual man over the internet. The purpose of this piece was to make fun of the different characters that one sees while browsing myspace. Although it does have a subtle warning to stay away from these people, he brings in a comedic aspect to them so that we laugh at them instead. The audience for this is anyone who has used the social networking site myspace.com.
Guercio, Peet. “Flirting on Myspace”. September 29, 2007. Online video clip. YouTube. Accessed on March 31, 2009. < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6tRFAxbh04>
Jared Sales - I got into a fight with an internet nerd
Jared Sales is a comedian and filmmaker who is known for his stand-up that utilizes power point presentations. This video was taken at one of his stand-up performances but it does not specify where. In this video, Jared reveals a conversation with an anonymous person on the internet to the audience, slide by slide. After almost every response from the other person, he ridicules this anonymous person in some way. This entire bit’s purpose is to correct the behavior of those who pick fights on the internet. The intended audience is anyone who has ever had the experience of fighting another online. For those who don’t have that experience, the bit works for them too because it is also the tale of a simple argument.
Sales, Jared. “I got into a fight with an internet nerd (powerpoint comedy)”. 21 September 2007. Online video clip. YouTube. Accessed on March 31, 2009. < v="Ff9gXNwSXiw">
Mitch Hedberg- "This CD is in Stores"
“Mitch All Together” is a CD recording of Mitch Hedberg’s show at the Acme Comedy Club in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 2003. Hedberg is known for his mellow voice, nervous stage presence and delivery, and one-line jokes about everyday observations. Hedberg was once called the next Seinfeld and had somewhat of a cult following before his untimely 2005 death.
Hedberg begins this CD by reminding his audience that this CD will be sold in stores, giving the first track its title, “This CD is in Stores.” On this track, he compares his new celebrity status with his old, non-celebrity status. He talks about how he already has a CD (referring to what was later sold as “Strategic Grill Locations”) but it would not be sold in a store unless he leaves it there and says to an employee, “That is for sale. Please alphabetize it.” While the segment is short (he soon transitions into a segment about his hotel), it emphasizes a side of celebrity-based comedy that is often overlooked. He takes on the opposite point of view, examining the state of not being a celebrity and not having your albums sold rather than more common celebrity-oriented topics like pop stars and the obsessions around them, for example.
Mitch Hedberg. Mitch All Together. Comedy Central, 2003.
Dave Chappelle- For What It's Worth
“For What It’s Worth” is a DVD of Dave Chappelle’s performance at the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco, CA. During his acts, he usually talks about racism and celebrity. On this particular DVD, Chappelle discusses the country music band The Dixie Chicks, and wonders why people care so much what they have to say about President George W. Bush, noting that the Dixie Chicks are not political scientists (who we should be turning to for this). He also brings up an MTV show from around September 11th on which the rapper Ja Rule was asked for his thoughts about the attacks. Chappelle asks why people want to know what a rapper thinks in a time of national tragedy. During this segment, Chappelle flat out says, “stop worshiping celebrities so much,” which is the main point he wants to get across with this piece. He uses the examples of the Dixie Chicks and Ja Rule to support this claim that people turn to celebrities for all of their needs, even though they are highly unqualified to fill them.
Dave Chappelle. For What It's Worth. Dir. Stan Lathan. The Fillmore Auditorium. Sony Pictures, 2004. DVD.
Dave Chappelle. For What It's Worth. Dir. Stan Lathan. The Fillmore Auditorium. Sony Pictures, 2004. DVD.
Eddie Izzard - Glorious
Eddie Izzard is an extremely successful stand up comedian who has covered a multitude of topics over his career. This bit was taken from his DVD entitled Eddie Izzard: Glorious. In this, he discusses the irrational fear of new technology, portrayal of computer use in the media, frustration with modern technology, and the end of the world will be a result of computer misues. Eddie is playing off of the common frustrations that many people have with their computers for this entire segment. He brings together the audience (anyone who’s ever used a computer) with his frustrations.
Glorious. Dir. Peter Richardson. Videocassette, Universal Pictures Video. 2004.
Dave Chappelle-Killin' Them Softly
Killin' Them Softly is a stand up performance at the Lincoln Theatre in Washington D.C. from the year 2000. Dave Chappelle is best known for his widely popular sketch show on Comedy Central, "Chappelle's Show," but before that he was star of the stand up comedy scene. He has also had roles in the movies, "Robin Hood: Men in Tights," "Con Air," "Undercover Brother," and various others. This standup is Dave's return to his hometown of Washington D.C. In the portion posted in the link above Dave talks about the differences blacks and whites have when it comes to talking about politics. He tells us that it is a cultural thing for white people to not discuss their politics. He then talks about how he would decide who to vote for, and why black people love Bill Clinton but hate George W. Bush. This short clip focuses on these two topics, but later in the stand up he really gets into his whole take on the Monica Lewinsky scandal. This stand up comes from Chappelle's long line of comedy based on race relations and societal behaviors. You can of course see the influence on Chappelle from comedians such as Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney. Dave is simply noticing the difference between two cultures in the way they discuss politics. When he gets to why he dislikes George W. Bush he is making a subtle statement that George Bush Jr. does not like black people, but in a hilarious way. This piece is written for anyone who appreciates the ability to laugh at the cultural differences we have as a society and who realize that it's okay to laugh at because it is funny. I would consider a person who argues that Dave Chappelle's comedy is in bad taste and inappropriate to be more of a racist than the person who sees it as what it is and enjoys it. Dave understands that our cultural differences are funny and we've progressed enough to be able to laugh at it, and Dave's stand up fans know and agree with him.
This Is No Game by Jack Handey
This Is No Game
Jack Handey is best known for his, "Deep Thoughts," which were featured on SNL from 1991-1998. He has published six books and has written for Steve Martin in the early 80's. Handey writes for, "The New Yorker," from time to time, and this is an example of one of his works for them. This article is another example of one-liner genius. As with his Deep Thoughts this article is in the style of delivering one-liner after one-liner unrelentlessley. The audience for this article is an interesting topic to think about because after all it is in, "The New Yorker." I would not consider myself to exactly be the publication's target market. I imagine that most of my peers would find this to be hilarious as well and I don't think they read the New Yorker either. My guess is that the people who loved Jack Handey on SNL in the 90's are reading the New Yorker now and appreciate seeing a Jack Handey's article from time to time.
Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifinakis
Zach Galifinakis is best known as a stand up comedian and one of the members of the Comedians of Comedy. He was on the short lived Comedy Central Show, "Dog Bites Man." The "Between Two Ferns" series began on the website funnyordie.com, which is a website full of comedy shorts that was started by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay. There are three short episodes of "Between Two Ferns," the second of which is this one with Jimmy Kimmel. Zach Galifinakis uses his unique brand of comedy, which includes making his guest feel as awkward as possible, to create scenarios that are simply hilarious and entertaining. It is a piece that is intended for anyone who like laughter.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Robert's Toot-Tone
Robert's Toot-Tone is a new technology device which turns fart noise into well-known cell phone melodies. It shows how you can turn a socially unaccepted behavior into something that other people cannot recognize so that you can continue doing it. Importance of that video is that it shows how people want to continue their behavior even though they are not accepted by the society, and how people are trying to develop new devices to maintain that.
"The best commercial ever ( very funny )." 6.10.08 3.30.09. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97ejk5NOrR8&NR=1>.
Freshman Orientation
This video is about a freshman orientation, and new-design glasses that shows where people are looking. RA of the floor is trying to guide freshmen about where they are looking all the time. Supporting Freud's argument, this video visualizes how people are thinking sexually about opposite (or same) sex at the first sight. A behavior not accepted by the society; however, done all the time, becomes a funny aspect as everybody is doing it and cannot avoid.
"Erkekler Once Nereye Bakar" (Where do the boys look at the first sight.) Facebook. 3.23.09 3.30.09. <http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/video/video.php?v=56240478989&ref=nf>.
Uploaded to blogger by me.
Obama urges $75-billion bailout for ‘responsible’ Vegas gamblers
Rivenburg, Roy. “Obama urges $75-billion bailout for ‘responsible’ Vegas gamblers.” 2009. Viewed 27 March 2009. .
This piece is part of a larger satirical online newspaper by Roy Rivenburg. The paper entitled Not The Los Angeles Times is created in a way that makes it look similar to the New York Times. The paper is intended for an audience that has an understanding of the current events and also has a sense of humor.
This article states that Obama wants to bailout “responsible gamblers” who were “duped into emptying their wallets by predatory blackjack dealers, cheap cocktails and fancy slot machines with hypnotic flashing lights." The article then takes the joke a step further by saying that the plan will also help people who have lost money in arcades playing the crane game. This pokes fun at Obama because he campaigned on the idea of fiscal responsibility but has bailed out people that were fiscally irresponsible. This has been seen as a contradiction by many.
This piece is part of a larger satirical online newspaper by Roy Rivenburg. The paper entitled Not The Los Angeles Times is created in a way that makes it look similar to the New York Times. The paper is intended for an audience that has an understanding of the current events and also has a sense of humor.
This article states that Obama wants to bailout “responsible gamblers” who were “duped into emptying their wallets by predatory blackjack dealers, cheap cocktails and fancy slot machines with hypnotic flashing lights." The article then takes the joke a step further by saying that the plan will also help people who have lost money in arcades playing the crane game. This pokes fun at Obama because he campaigned on the idea of fiscal responsibility but has bailed out people that were fiscally irresponsible. This has been seen as a contradiction by many.
High School Bars Criticism of President Obama
Semmens, John. “High School Bars Criticism of President Obama.” 24 January 2009. Viewed 26 Mach 2009. .
This satire is about a high school in Indiana that banned students from criticizing President Obama. The administration claimed that this was done because it is every American’s duty to fully support Obama in all of his endeavors despite the fact that criticizing former President Bush was allowed.
Of course none of this actually happened, but it does raise an interesting point, few people are criticizing President Obama, and those that do tend to be attacked for it. This article pokes fun at this idea by stating that all criticism is banned and essentially unpatriotic. The article is aimed at people who have some knowledge of current events, as layer 2 would be lost on those who were not.
John Semmens has written numerous articles, both satirical and not, that have appeared in such places as the Wall Street Journal and Washington Times.
This satire is about a high school in Indiana that banned students from criticizing President Obama. The administration claimed that this was done because it is every American’s duty to fully support Obama in all of his endeavors despite the fact that criticizing former President Bush was allowed.
Of course none of this actually happened, but it does raise an interesting point, few people are criticizing President Obama, and those that do tend to be attacked for it. This article pokes fun at this idea by stating that all criticism is banned and essentially unpatriotic. The article is aimed at people who have some knowledge of current events, as layer 2 would be lost on those who were not.
John Semmens has written numerous articles, both satirical and not, that have appeared in such places as the Wall Street Journal and Washington Times.
Crossballs
Crossballs, or The Debate Show, is a short-lived tv show that aired on Comedy Central. The show was meant to parody political debate shows, specifically CNN's Crossfire and MSNBC's Hardball with Chris Matthews. Each episode involves comedians posing as experts on a specific topic. In the case of this clip, the comedians are the host, the "stoner" sitting all the way on the left, and the anti-marijuana hippy. These comedians then debate two real commentators on the topic, such as the legalization of marijuana. These real commentators have no idea that the show is fake. The comedy not only comes from the comedians poking fun at their stance on the topic, but also from the real commentators who get frustrated with the actors. If the real commentator has a weird or nonsensical point of view, it is made to look even more ridiculous by the comedian who is trying to back him up. Although the main point of the show is comedy, there is still some real debating involved.
"Drugs." Crossballs. Host Chris Tallman. Comedy Central. 8 July 2004.
Late Night With Conan O'Brien
Conan O'Brien is best known as the host of what used to be Late Night With Conan O'Brien. The late night talk show is now hosted by Jimmy Fallon of Saturday Night Live fame and O'Brien will be taking over The Tonight Show in June of this year. O'Brien went to Harvard University where he expressed interest in comedy by writing for Harvard's humor magazine and was even the president for two years. Before becoming the host of Late Night, OBrien wrote for Satruday Night Live for a few years and from 1991 till 1993, he was a writer for The Simpsons. He is credited as writer or co-writer for four episodes. As for his work as the host of Late Night, Conan O'Brien showed his ablilities as a skilled communicator by improvising jokes during interviews. Not all the jokes in the clip are improvised, (obviously some are sketches planned beforehand) but to really see his communication talents, watch some of his interviews at the NBC website: http://www.nbc.com/Late_Night_with_Conan_O
"The Best of Conan O'Brien." Late Night With Conan O'Brien. 27 August 2008. 29 March 2009. Youtube.
Prop 8- The Musical
"Prop 8 - The Musical" starring Jack Black, John C. Reilly, and many more... from Jack Black
The website Funny or Die, founded by comedians Will Ferrel and Adam McKay, is a viral video website that broadcasts comedic content. The name comes from the fact that as soon as a video is uploaded, users get to vote on whether it is funny or it should go to the 'crypt.' It is also very common for comedic celebrities to make guest appearances and to upload their own videos as exclusives to the site. This particular video got 1.2 hits on its very first day after it was uploaded on December right after California's Proposition 8 was passed, and is one of these exclusives.
Marc Shaiman, famous film, tv, and Broadway composer and lyricist, got together with director Adam Shankman to make the video in only a few days right after he learned that the musical director of the California Musical Theater had donated to a Yes-on-Prop 8 campaign (Itzkoff). The video begins with a group of people reveling on the "brand new, bright Obama day" only to be interrupted by 'Proposition 8'ers' who think it's time to "...spread some hate and put it in the Constitution." The video continues as a musical fight between the 'Proposition 8ers' and their opposers as a way to satirize California's Proposition 8 and those in favor of it, Christians that pick and choose which parts of the Bible to uphold, and people that use religion-based arguments to pass a state law. The video also pokes fun at the stereotyping of homosexuals (the Proposition 8ers sing: "...now make our clothes and fix our hair") and the importance placed on money, exemplified by Neil Patrick Harris singing that "every time a gay or lesbian finds love at the parade, there's money to be made" leading everyone to end the song with "gay marriage will save the economy!"*
*This point was included by Marc Shaiman after he learned of a study by UCLA stating that legalization of gay marriage would really stimulate the California economy (California Proposition 8). The article about the study can be found here: http://articles.latimes.com/p/2008/jun/02/business/fi-wedding2
Just for reference, some of the comedians in the video include:
WORKS CITED
"California Proposition 8," Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia, accessed March 31, 2009, <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Proposition_8_(2008)#Proposition_8:_The_Musical>
Itzkof, Dave "Marc Shaiman on ‘Prop 8 — The Musical,’" The New York Times, Dec. 4, 2008, <http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/12/04/marc-shaiman-on-prop-8-the-musical/?hp>
"Prop 8- The Musical," Funny or Die, online video clip, December 3, 2008, accessed March 30, 2009, <http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/c0cf508ff8/prop-8-the-musical-starring-jack-black-john-c-reilly-and-many-more-from-fod-team-jack-black-craig-robinson-john-c-reilly-and-rashida-jones>
The website Funny or Die, founded by comedians Will Ferrel and Adam McKay, is a viral video website that broadcasts comedic content. The name comes from the fact that as soon as a video is uploaded, users get to vote on whether it is funny or it should go to the 'crypt.' It is also very common for comedic celebrities to make guest appearances and to upload their own videos as exclusives to the site. This particular video got 1.2 hits on its very first day after it was uploaded on December right after California's Proposition 8 was passed, and is one of these exclusives.
Marc Shaiman, famous film, tv, and Broadway composer and lyricist, got together with director Adam Shankman to make the video in only a few days right after he learned that the musical director of the California Musical Theater had donated to a Yes-on-Prop 8 campaign (Itzkoff). The video begins with a group of people reveling on the "brand new, bright Obama day" only to be interrupted by 'Proposition 8'ers' who think it's time to "...spread some hate and put it in the Constitution." The video continues as a musical fight between the 'Proposition 8ers' and their opposers as a way to satirize California's Proposition 8 and those in favor of it, Christians that pick and choose which parts of the Bible to uphold, and people that use religion-based arguments to pass a state law. The video also pokes fun at the stereotyping of homosexuals (the Proposition 8ers sing: "...now make our clothes and fix our hair") and the importance placed on money, exemplified by Neil Patrick Harris singing that "every time a gay or lesbian finds love at the parade, there's money to be made" leading everyone to end the song with "gay marriage will save the economy!"*
*This point was included by Marc Shaiman after he learned of a study by UCLA stating that legalization of gay marriage would really stimulate the California economy (California Proposition 8). The article about the study can be found here: http://articles.latimes.com/p/2008/jun/02/business/fi-wedding2
Just for reference, some of the comedians in the video include:
- Margaret Cho, stand-up comedian (for more information go to http://humor-database.blogspot.com/2009/03/margaret-cho-christians-have-lost-their.html and http://humor-database.blogspot.com/2009/03/margaret-cho-asian-americans-and-racial.html)
- Maya Rudolph from SNL (http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/bios/Maya_Rudolph.shtml)
- John C. Reilly (Step Brothers, Walk Hard, Chicago, The Aviator, etc. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_c_reilly])
- Neil Patrick Harris, from Doogie Howser, Harold & Kumar (http://humor-database.blogspot.com/2009/02/harold-kumar-go-to-white-castle.html), and How I Met Your Mother
- Jack Black as Jesus (Tenacious D, High Fidelity, School of Rock, Nacho Libre, etc.[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_black])
- Rashida Jones from The Office (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rashida_Jones)
- Sarah Chalke from Scrubs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Chalke)
WORKS CITED
"California Proposition 8," Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia, accessed March 31, 2009, <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Proposition_8_(2008)#Proposition_8:_The_Musical>
Itzkof, Dave "Marc Shaiman on ‘Prop 8 — The Musical,’" The New York Times, Dec. 4, 2008, <http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/12/04/marc-shaiman-on-prop-8-the-musical/?hp>
"Prop 8- The Musical," Funny or Die, online video clip, December 3, 2008, accessed March 30, 2009, <http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/c0cf508ff8/prop-8-the-musical-starring-jack-black-john-c-reilly-and-many-more-from-fod-team-jack-black-craig-robinson-john-c-reilly-and-rashida-jones>
American (The Book)
Stewart, Jon, Ben Karlin, and David Javerbaum. American (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction. New York City: Warner Books, 2004.
Jon Stewart and the rest of The Daily Show writers have always been quick to point out the absurdities of American government on their late night show. Often the show seen as liberal, due to their ruthless attacks on the Republican party, but they do occasionally take a swipe at Democrats, or semi-Democrats (Joe Lieberman). This book is written as a mock text book, complete with end of chapeter activities and everything. The book is a satirical look at the inner workings of government, and the authors adopt an authorative voice while writing. Chapter 3 is devoted to the office of the Presidency, and makes fun of the anything from the duties of the President, which apparently includes "Feigning enthusiam for the visiting NCAA Women's Basketball champions", to the lack of diversity of the people elected to the office (this was written in 2004, before Barack Obama was elected). The textbook's authorative voice is supported by massive amounts of research, albeit some is quite comically fake. Through this viewpoint, they highlight everything that doesn't make sense in our government. For example, it points out how every incoming President blames his predecessor, only to later take credit for the delayed effects of his policy. The purpose of this examination of American government is to change the American voters point of view of things, hopefully shifting away from trusting the government is working for the people and starting to be more skeptical of the real motivations behind government actions. The audience, who consists of liberal readers, are the people who are already skeptical of government, but this book will reinforce their notion that government is as an institution needs to be closely watched.
Jon Stewart and the rest of The Daily Show writers have always been quick to point out the absurdities of American government on their late night show. Often the show seen as liberal, due to their ruthless attacks on the Republican party, but they do occasionally take a swipe at Democrats, or semi-Democrats (Joe Lieberman). This book is written as a mock text book, complete with end of chapeter activities and everything. The book is a satirical look at the inner workings of government, and the authors adopt an authorative voice while writing. Chapter 3 is devoted to the office of the Presidency, and makes fun of the anything from the duties of the President, which apparently includes "Feigning enthusiam for the visiting NCAA Women's Basketball champions", to the lack of diversity of the people elected to the office (this was written in 2004, before Barack Obama was elected). The textbook's authorative voice is supported by massive amounts of research, albeit some is quite comically fake. Through this viewpoint, they highlight everything that doesn't make sense in our government. For example, it points out how every incoming President blames his predecessor, only to later take credit for the delayed effects of his policy. The purpose of this examination of American government is to change the American voters point of view of things, hopefully shifting away from trusting the government is working for the people and starting to be more skeptical of the real motivations behind government actions. The audience, who consists of liberal readers, are the people who are already skeptical of government, but this book will reinforce their notion that government is as an institution needs to be closely watched.
Colbert Roasts President Bush - 2006 White House Correspondents Dinner
Stephen Colbert. Correspondents' Dinner Speech. White House Correspondents' Association. Washington Hilton. C-Span, 2006. "Colbert Roasts President Bush - 2006 White House Correspondents Dinner."YouTube. 26.4.07 3.26.09 http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-869183917758574879.
Stephen Colbert, who made his big break as a reporter on The Daily Show, is among the most popular fake news anchors on television today. He puts on a persona that closely resembles Bill O’Reilly, the loud talking, conservative anchor of The O’Reilly Factor. He is never out of character, spouting extreme conservative view points that make Republicans out to be ridiculous. To some people’s shock, he maintained this character when performing at the 2006 White House Correspondents Dinner, which was an event attended by the President, First Lady, high ranking officials and the members of the media. While the President was sitting not ten feet from him, Colbert went on to roast pretty much everything about George W. Bush. He made fun of the President’s intellect, secrecy, vacation time, and stubbornness to admit mistakes. Colbert basically highlighted major news stories that occurred about the President during his time in office. The audience on layer one was the President, who he acted like he was admiring the whole time. The layer two audience is the members of the press, who he has a disrespect for. The conclusion he was trying to stress was it is alright to make fun of the President at any time, even when speaking directly to him. He even at one point chides the press for starting to speak up, but what he is really doing is demonstrating their failure to fulfill the duties of the Fourth Estate. The audience, on both layers, will not like the criticism, but having it wrapped up in a joke makes it softer and there was an increase of scrutiny on the President in his last few years in office.
| Comedy Central Presents | Friday 10pm / 9c | |||
| Gregg Rogell: Cell Phones | ||||
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This video is of Gregg Rogell during his performance on Comedy Central Presents. This video was filmed at the Hudson Theater in New York City. Rogell has appeared on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and The Nanny. He has had his own half hour special on Comedy Central, and was a featured performer in the movie The Aristocrats. He is also a regular performer at New York City's Comedy Cellar. He was born on February 18, 1967 in Long Island, New York. He has toured, opening for Dolly Parton, Wynonna Judd, and Dave Chappelle, and has appeared with Bob Hope and Bill Cosby on several NBC specials. About a year after his first performance doing standup, Rogell won "The funniest person in Long Island" contest, the WKGR South Florida Laugh Off. Two years later, he had appeared on "Evening at the Improv," "E! Stand Up Sit Down with Robert Klein," "Caroline's Comedy Hour," "The MTV Half Hour Comedy Hour," "VH1 Stand Up Spotlight," "Two Drink Minimum," "Comic Strip Live," and several others. Rogell has not produced any of his own CDs, however he is featured in “The Aristocrats” soundtrack. Barker’s comedy covers topics such as technology, religion, politics, the economy and terrorism. In this video, Rogell talks about cell phones and the irritation caused by cell phone plans such as roaming charges and “anytime minutes”. Then he goes on to talk about anthrax and terrorism. The point of this piece is to make the audience think about how ridiculous it is for some people to be so paranoid about terrorist attacks. In another bit, he mentions hearing a man from North Dakota on the news saying “It could happen here” to which he remembers thinking “No it can’t”. In this video he makes light of the fact that cell phones are believed to have the capability of causing brain tumors while anthrax only killed five people. This is meant to open people’s eyes to the fact that there are several things in the world around us that can cause us harm and that to be paranoid about possible terrorist attacks doesn’t do us any good. The audience would most likely be slightly offended by this comparison of something as seemingly benign as their beloved cell phones to something as deadly and frightening as anthrax and terrorist attacks. But later, they will likely come to the realization that they may be just as likely to develop a brain tumor from using their cell phones as they are to experience a terrorist attack, both being quite low.
Arj Barker
| Comedy Central Presents | Friday 10pm / 9c | |||
| Arj Barker - The Internet | ||||
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This video is of Arj Barker during his performance on Comedy Central Presents. This video was filmed at the Hudson Theater in New York City. Barker has appeared on Premium Blend, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and The Glass House. He has also appeared twice on Comedy Central Presents. He was born on August 12, 1974 in San Anselmo, California to an engineer father and artist mother. He has toured in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. He signed up for his first open mic when he was 19, playing to a room full of sailors at Holy City Zoo in San Francisco and began touring nationally by the age of 22. Barker has not produced any of his own CDs, however he is a part of the compilation album entitled “Pot’s Greatest Hits: A Stash of Standup Comedy”. In an interview with Wickedinfo.com, he said that he was “inspired by some British comedy when [he] was a kid” such as Monty Python, and the Two Ronnies. However, he claims no to watch much standup these days so as not to be influenced too much by what other comedians are doing. Barker’s comedy covers topics such as technology, holidays, banks and the news. In this video, Barker talks about office technology and the tedium that comes with purchasing and ordering items such as fax machines and printers. Later, he goes on to talk about Myspce and how he goes to the zoo with his Myspace friends. The point of this piece is to make the audience aware of the realities of having Myspace “friends”. In the beginning of the bit, he talks about buying a printer and in the end says that he believes that the internet is going to change the way that we do business. These parts seem to function primarily as entertainment and nothing more. However, the part about Myspace seems to be much more of a social criticism than the rest of the joke. The audience that this bit is meant for is the generation of people who are growing up with websites such as Myspace and Facebook who suffer from bleak social lives caused by dependency on online relationships. The audience would most likely be slightly offended by this exaggeration of someone going to the zoo and typing on their laptop “Look at the Giraffe.” But later, they will likely take into consideration that it is ridiculous to call people who you only know on the internet actual friends
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Jackie Kashian
This video is of Jackie Kashian during her performance on Comedy Time. Comedy Time is one of the first made-for-mobile networks which has become the global market leader in original comedy content created for wireless handsets. This video was filmed at the Found Theater in Long Beach, California. Kashian has made appearances on NBC, VH1, and A&E. She recently had a tour in Australia for 10 weeks for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and ABC Australia said, "the gem of the night was Jackie Kashian. Her droll, perceptive description of her family was hilarious." The Minneapolis Star Tribune wrote, "Jackie Kashian’s comedy is that rare, wonderful combination: smart and funny." She has two CDs, "Cake Is Not My Downfall" and “In A Sweatshop of One”. Her influences include Dana Gould, Maria Bamford, Marc Maron, Greg Proops, Zig Zigler, Johnny Carson, Dick Cavett, Lenny Bruce, and Sam Kinison. Kashian’s comedy covers topics such as dating, marriage, family life, and video games. In this video, Kashian talks about online dating and her relationship with her husband. The point of this piece is to inform the audience of the benefits of online dating. She doesn’t mention it in this video, but other times that she’s performed this bit, she mentions that the guy who she met using an online dating service is the man she married. The audience that this bit is meant for is the whole population of people who can identify with using an online dating service and also those who may have never used one, but are curious to try. The audience would most likely be merely entertained at first by her stereotyping of video game designers and other “geeky” jobs, but it is also likely that after thinking about it, they will discover the true message of the joke which is that online dating helps you meet people.
In The Know: Should We Be Shaming Obese Children More?
"In The Know: Should We Be Shaming Obese Children More? | The Onion - America's Finest News Source." Home | The Onion - America's Finest News Source. 28 Mar. 2009
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