The documentary showcases the evolution of the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival, which began in 2007 as a small-scale event and grew into a popular annual festival that showcased some of the biggest names in comedy. The film includes interviews with comedians who participated in the festival, such as Kristen Schaal, Jon Glaser, and Michael Ian Black, as well as footage of some of the festival's most memorable performances.
Along with showcasing the festival's comedic talent, the documentary explores Mirman's personal life, including his struggle with anxiety and his decision to relocate from New York City to Massachusetts with his wife and son. The film also touches on the closure of the Bell House, the Brooklyn venue that hosted many of the festival's shows, and the final farewell show that brought the festival to a close.
Throughout the documentary, Mirman's irreverent sense of humor is on full display, and the film highlights the importance of humor and laughter in difficult times. It Started As a Joke is a poignant tribute to the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival and its impact on the world of alternative comedy.
