A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018) is a biographical comedy-drama directed by David Wain, based on the life of Doug Kenney, co-founder of the influential magazine National Lampoon. The film stars Will Forte as Doug Kenney, alongside a talented ensemble including Domhnall Gleeson, Martin Mull, and Emmy Rossum. It offers a humorous and poignant look at Kenney’s life and the impact of his work on American comedy.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, themes, and where to watch A Futile and Stupid Gesture online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: The Rise and Fall of a Comedy Pioneer
The Futile and Stupid Gesture follows the life of Doug Kenney (Will Forte), a key figure in the creation of National Lampoon and a pioneer in the world of comedy. The film explores Kenney’s rise from an aspiring writer to a prominent figure in American comedy, highlighting his work on National Lampoon magazine, as well as his involvement in iconic comedy films such as Animal House and Caddyshack.
The narrative delves into Kenney’s personal and professional challenges, including his struggles with fame, addiction, and mental health. The film portrays his creative genius and the often tumultuous path that led to his untimely death. Through a blend of humor and drama, it paints a vivid picture of Kenney’s influence on comedy and the impact of his work on those around him.
The film’s tone oscillates between lighthearted comedy and serious drama, capturing the complexities of Kenney’s life and career.
Performances: Forte, Gleeson, and the Ensemble Cast
The film features a strong cast that delivers both comedic and dramatic performances:
- Will Forte: Forte stars as Doug Kenney, bringing a mix of humor and depth to the role. His portrayal captures Kenney’s comedic brilliance as well as his personal struggles, providing a nuanced and engaging performance.
- Domhnall Gleeson: Gleeson plays Henry Beard, Kenney’s co-founder at National Lampoon and a close friend. His performance adds an additional layer of insight into Kenney’s professional life and the dynamics of their partnership.
- Martin Mull: Mull appears as a mentor figure in the film, contributing to the portrayal of Kenney’s creative journey and professional challenges.
- Emmy Rossum: Rossum portrays one of the significant women in Kenney’s life, adding depth to the personal aspects of his story.
The ensemble cast effectively brings the film’s characters to life, enhancing the overall narrative and emotional impact.
Themes: Comedy, Creativity, and Personal Struggles
A Futile and Stupid Gesture explores several key themes:
- Comedy and Creativity: The film highlights Kenney’s contributions to comedy and his role in shaping American humor. It explores the creative process behind National Lampoon and its influence on comedy.
- Fame and Personal Struggles: The narrative delves into the impact of fame on Kenney’s life, including his struggles with addiction, mental health, and the pressures of success.
- Friendship and Collaboration: The film examines the dynamics of Kenney’s professional relationships, particularly with Henry Beard, and how these collaborations influenced his career and personal life.
These themes are central to the film’s plot and contribute to its exploration of Kenney’s complex life and legacy.
Direction and Cinematography: A Blend of Humor and Drama
David Wain’s direction and the film’s cinematography contribute to its engaging and dynamic presentation:
- Direction: Wain’s direction ensures a balance between comedy and drama, capturing the highs and lows of Kenney’s life with a blend of humor and poignancy. His approach maintains a compelling and entertaining narrative.
- Cinematography: The cinematography by John Bailey captures the film’s visual style, reflecting both the vibrant and chaotic aspects of Kenney’s world. The visual presentation complements the film’s tone and narrative.
The combination of direction and cinematography creates a visually appealing and emotionally resonant film.
Where to Watch A Futile and Stupid Gesture Online
If you’re interested in watching A Futile and Stupid Gesture, here are the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: A Futile and Stupid Gesture is available to stream on Hulu for subscribers.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available to stream for Amazon Prime subscribers.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Video: A Futile and Stupid Gesture can be rented or purchased on Amazon Video. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchase options available for $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchases available for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: A Futile and Stupid Gesture can be rented at $3.99 or purchased at $12.99 on iTunes.
- Vudu: The film is available for rent or purchase on Vudu, with similar pricing to other platforms.
Why You Should Watch A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018)
A Futile and Stupid Gesture offers an entertaining and insightful look at the life of Doug Kenney and the impact of National Lampoon on American comedy. With strong performances from Will Forte, Domhnall Gleeson, and an ensemble cast, the film provides a blend of humor and drama that captures Kenney’s creative genius and personal struggles.
If you enjoy biographical comedies with a focus on creative individuals and their impact on culture, A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a film worth watching. Its exploration of comedy, fame, and personal challenges makes it a memorable and engaging experience.
Final Thoughts
A Futile and Stupid Gesture combines humor, drama, and strong performances to create a compelling portrait of Doug Kenney and his contributions to comedy. Its exploration of themes like creativity, fame, and personal struggles, along with effective direction and cinematography, ensures an enjoyable and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Ready for a comedic and insightful look at the world of National Lampoon? Stream A Futile and Stupid Gesture on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video, or explore rental and purchase options to experience this entertaining biographical film.
