Chicago is home to some of the most famous comedians in stand up, many of which are important names in film and television today. Out of the Loop is a look at the history of stand up comedy in the city. It is also examines how the comedy scene there is as polarized and segregated Chicago itself.
The majority of the documentary is about how the racial divide in the city’s comedy mirrors the North and South sides of Chicago. No matter their material, comedians are playing for two different types of audiences All of the subjects interviewed talk about the differences when playing to a white crowd versus performing in front of a Black audience. This leads to some hilarious stories from the people interviewed.
This is another big draw. There are a number of top comedians interviewed. Out of the Loop starts with a message from Bob Odenkirk (he is unable to participate in the actual filming, unfortunately) and includes the late Judy Tenuta, Hannibal Buress, and Marsha Warfield. Naturally, the interviews are funny, but they also have something serious to say.
Out of the Loop also touches on the difficulties female comedians face. Almost ironically, it spends much less time on the topic than on race relations. It does pack a lot in during a short period, however. Still, it is surprising that after discussing the problem of women being ignored, it spends only a few minutes actually discussing it.
Out of the Loop from Gravitas Ventures on Vimeo.
Though some streaming networks regularly release new stand up comedy specials, there is little dispute that stand up was a bigger fixture years ago. Out of the Loop talks about the decline of comedy clubs in Chicago in another brief segment. Though it can get somber at times, it is a funny and surprisingly insightful look at Chicago comedy. It highlights how there is more to Chicago than The Second City improv group. That being said, as good as it is, the film is strictly for fans of stand up comedy.
Out of the Loop opens on digital platforms April 11
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