Category Archives: Judd Apatow

Finally We Can Add Terry Gross to the Judd Apatow Chart!

Well, not really.  Not unless he casts her in his next movie.  But maybe this time instead of stand-up comedians he’ll focus on the textured lives public radio personalities.  Anyway!

Been a long time since we talked about Judd Apatow on here (some might say too long), but Apatow was on Fresh Air with Terry Gross today, primarily to promote the DVD (and Blu-Ray!) release of Funny People (in both in Theatrical and Unrated editions!  So many choices!  Digital Download!).  Of course he also touched on Freaks & Geeks, casting his children in his movies, his history with Adam Sandler, and the one time while waiting to meet with Lorne Michaels he was overcome with weed paranoia.  A must listen for any Apatow completist.  A recommended listen for anyone who’s interested in the craft of comedy.  A marginally encouraged listen for anyone who likes interviews, specifically public radio interviews.  A must not listen for anyone who hates fun and/or does not have internet access.

Here –>  Judd Apatow on the Alchemy of Funny People

Speaking of Funny People, and what would a quick post be without some sorta unnecessary commentary, while the movie was bloated and somewhat self-involved, I think that it will benefit from the passage of time.  It wasn’t the kind of movie that lends itself to being seen in the theater with a full cackling, popcorn flying in the air from spastic laughter, kind of audience.  It’s probably best viewed from the couch, with microwave popcorn in hand (and all the better!  Did you read the new study on the caloric content of movie theater popcorn?  It’s outrageous!  Still going to buy it every time) and the flexibility to pause the film for (several) bathroom breaks.  It moves at a glacial pace, but there was some good acting being done there, and it’s certainly Apatow’s most personal, introspective movie.  The “you know how I know you’re gay?” jokes might not hold up in twenty years, but the sentiments and humanity in Funny People might.  It’s just not that funny.

And finally, an excuse for this, the best part about Funny People!

(and yes, that includes Randy.  He’s a close second.  Followed by Eric Bana)

Leave a comment

Filed under Judd Apatow, Marconi & Cheese

Apatow’s MoJo

Box Office Mojo presents a Judd Apatow movie showdown.  Mostly just a financial comparison of his five biggest films to date, but worth a look.

Leave a comment

Filed under Judd Apatow

The Judd Apatow Effect! Finally Complete!

Many years ago I started plotting the connections between Judd Apatow, his frequent collaborators, and emerging comic talents.  Well, I talked about that chart for a while, and never really did anything about it.  However, after getting laid off I decided it was time to do it.  And I’m happy to say it’s finally ready!  Check out the thumbnails below and read more about it on the Judd Apatow Effect page.   With several films featuring actors and directors from the Apatow family tree released in the last few weeks, ( I Love You, Man, Adventureland, and Observe and Report), the time seems right to look at the scope of his reach and his effect on modern comedy.

Please take a look and let me know if you have any thoughts, comments or suggestions.  Also, don’t hesitate to relate any errors or omissions.  It’s still a work in progress, and I plan to keep updating it.  I already have a list of actors and projects to be added to the Third Level, and it doesn’t look like the Apatow factory is going to slow anytime soon, so keep checking back.

See you later, Joben!

First Level of the Judd Apatow Effect

First Level of the Judd Apatow Effect

Second Level of the Judd Apatow Effect

Second Level of the Judd Apatow Effect

3 Comments

Filed under Judd Apatow