Comedy
United States of America
A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a biographical comedy-drama film that follows the life of Doug Kenney, the co-founder of National Lampoon, one of the most influential satirical magazines of the 1970s. The film showcases Doug's journey from his early days at Harvard to his ultimate success in Hollywood. The movie is based on the book of the same name by Josh Karp.
The film is directed by David Wain and stars Will Forte as Doug Kenney, with additional performances by Domhnall Gleeson, Joel McHale, Emmy Rossum, and Natasha Lyonne.
A Futile and Stupid Gesture takes a unique approach to storytelling, breaking the fourth wall and using meta-narration by the characters to propel the plot forward. The film also features plenty of Easter eggs and nods to classic National Lampoon sketches, making it a treat for fans of the magazine.
As Doug's success grows, the film explores the difficulties that come with fame and fortune. Doug struggles with addiction and the pressure to continue putting out high-quality content. However, despite the challenges, Doug remains dedicated to his work, often to the detriment of his personal life.
The film ends with a touching tribute to Doug's legacy and his impact on the world of comedy. A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a hilarious and heartfelt tribute to one of the most important figures in comedy history.
