Review of The King of Comedy (1982) by Jay R — 20 Mar 2010
One of Robert De Niro's finest performances, this comedic, dark and at times disturbing film tells the story of Rupert Pupkin, a regular guy obsessed with becoming the next great comic talk show host.
Jerry Lewis' performance as Jarry Langford, the Carson-esque host with whom Pupkin is obsessed is a different turn for the old-school comedian, showcasing a more serious and frustrated side, exposing what can easily be read as his inner personality.
Sandra Bernhardt's performance as Pupkin's psychotically unstable friend is often comic, despite taking turns that lead more on the uncomfortable side of the grass. For its theme, story and subject involving kidnapping and threatening one's life, this is a subtly tame film for Scorsese, who has often portrayed a gritty, violent side of the crime story.
No violence what so ever and very brief language make this a staple for Scorsese's career given that it is more a display of one man's inner tendencies to be violent and dangerous that develop yet remain subtle throughout the plot.
Brilliantly acted and directed.
This review of The King of Comedy (1982) was written by Jay R on 20 Mar 2010.
The King of Comedy has generally received very positive reviews.
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