The King of Comedy (1982) Review in 2025
The King of Comedy is a dark comedy film that tells the story of a struggling comedian who kidnaps his idol, a famous talk show host, to get his big break. The movie explores themes of obsession, fame, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of dark comedy and drama. However, it's not suitable for family viewing due to mature themes and language. It's best enjoyed in theaters or on a streaming platform with a good sound system.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film's protagonist, Rupert Pupkin, is a wannabe comedian who becomes obsessed with his idol, Jerry Langford. Rupert kidnaps Jerry and holds him hostage, hoping to get a spot on his talk show. However, things take a dark turn as Rupert's obsession with Jerry becomes more and more unhinged, leading to a series of chaotic and violent events.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-written, with a unique blend of comedy and drama. However, it can be a bit slow-paced at times, and some viewers may find it difficult to connect with the protagonist's obsession.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Robert De Niro delivering a career-defining performance. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Jerry Lewis and Diahnne Abbott.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Robert De Niro delivering a standout performance as the protagonist. However, some viewers may find Jerry Lewis's character to be a bit one-dimensional.
direction9.50/10
Martin Scorsese's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human psyche. He brings out the best in his actors and creates a visually stunning film.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a unique blend of dark and muted colors that perfectly capture the tone of the film. However, some viewers may find the camera work to be a bit too static at times.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The King of Comedy is a masterfully crafted film with a unique blend of comedy and drama. The performances are superb, and the direction is top-notch. The film's themes of obsession and fame are timely and thought-provoking.
Cons
The film can be a bit slow-paced at times, and some viewers may find it difficult to connect with the protagonist's obsession. Additionally, the film's tone can be a bit inconsistent, veering wildly from comedy to drama.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a comedian, I'm a king."
"I'm not a king, I'm a prisoner."
"You're a comedian, Rupert. You're a king of comedy."
