The Comedy is a 2012 independent film directed by Rick Alverson and starring Tim Heidecker. The film follows Swanson (Heidecker), a wealthy, middle-aged man who lives in Brooklyn and has no real direction in life. He spends his days hanging out with his friends, who are equally aimless, and engaging in behavior that can be described as mocking, cruel, and nihilistic.
Swanson, who is set to inherit his father's fortune, spends his days drinking, smoking, and making fun of people. He and his friends often participate in activities such as playing pranks on strangers or pretending to be homeless in order to elicit reactions from others. Swanson's behavior is an attempt to find meaning in his life but he is unable to do so.
Throughout the film, Swanson also deals with the failing health of his father, whom he has a strained relationship with. He struggles with the idea of inheriting his father's wealth and the moral implications that come with it.
The Comedy is a dark and satirical portrayal of contemporary urban ennui. Heidecker delivers a nuanced performance as Swanson, whose lack of direction is reflective of a generation that is adrift and struggling to find meaning in a world that seems to have lost its own.