Toronto Godspell Documentary Ignites Comedy Revolution Review
A new documentary, "You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution," has been making waves in the entertainment industry. The film, directed by Nick Davis, explores how a 1972 production of "Godspell" in Toronto sparked a comedy revolution that would go on to shape television and comedy as we know it today.
According to Owen Gleiberman, chief film critic for Variety, the documentary is an "exuberant and essential doc for comedy heads." In his review, Gleiberman writes: "The comedy revolution referred to by the title of Nick Davis's sharp and effusive documentary...is the one that took place on television in the 70s: the creation of Saturday Night Live and SCTV and everything that grew out of them."
Gleiberman credits the Toronto production of "Godspell" as the catalyst for this revolution, stating that it was like "the '27 Yankees of comedy," creating a culture that influenced the world. The documentary delves into the behind-the-scenes story of how this production came to be and its lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
The 1972 Toronto production of "Godspell" was a groundbreaking show that brought together a talented group of comedians, including Eugene Levy and Andrea Martin, who would go on to become household names. The show's irreverent style and humor paved the way for future comedy troupes like Saturday Night Live and SCTV.
Industry insiders agree that the documentary is a must-see for fans of comedy. "It's a fascinating look at how comedy evolved in the 1970s," says comedian and actor, Martin Short. "The Toronto production of 'Godspell' was a game-changer, and this documentary does an excellent job of capturing its spirit."
The documentary has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising its engaging storytelling and insightful commentary. As the comedy landscape continues to evolve, "You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution" serves as a timely reminder of the power of comedy to shape culture and inspire new generations of comedians.
The documentary is currently playing at select film festivals and will be released in theaters later this year. For fans of comedy and those interested in the history of entertainment, "You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution" is a must-see event that promises to leave audiences laughing and inspired.
Background:
The 1972 Toronto production of "Godspell" was a groundbreaking show that brought together a talented group of comedians.
The show's irreverent style and humor paved the way for future comedy troupes like Saturday Night Live and SCTV.
Industry insiders agree that the documentary is a must-see for fans of comedy.
Additional perspectives:
Comedian and actor, Martin Short, praises the documentary as "a fascinating look at how comedy evolved in the 1970s."
The documentary has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising its engaging storytelling and insightful commentary.
Current status and next developments:
The documentary is currently playing at select film festivals.
It will be released in theaters later this year.
*Reporting by Variety.*