A Futile and Stupid Gesture

About A Futile and Stupid Gesture

A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a 2018 biographical comedy-drama film that delves into the life of Douglas Kenney, one of the co-founders of the National Lampoon magazine and a pioneer in the American comedy scene. The movie portrays Kenney's rise to fame, struggles with success, and his eventual tragic demise. It offers a humorous but poignant look at the creation of National Lampoon and the impact it had on comedy culture.

Explore

• About A Futile and Stupid Gesture
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Quotes
• Music, Soundtrack

About

The movie follows Douglas Kenney (played by Will Forte) and Henry Beard (played by Domhnall Gleeson) as they launch the National Lampoon magazine and revolutionize comedy in the 1970s. It explores Kenney's comedic genius, his struggles with substance abuse, and the challenges he faced in balancing fame and personal demons. The film also touches on the impact of National Lampoon on popular culture and the evolution of American humor.

Making / Production

The film is directed by David Wain and is based on Josh Karp's book of the same name. It features a mix of comedy and drama, capturing both the silliness and the seriousness of Kenney's life story. The production design authentically recreates the 1970s era, capturing the colorful and chaotic atmosphere of the time.

Actors

• Will Forte as Douglas Kenney - Forte portrays the complex character of Kenney with depth and humor, showcasing his comedic talent and dramatic range.
• Domhnall Gleeson as Henry Beard - Gleeson brings Beard's intelligence and wit to life, creating a compelling dynamic with Kenney.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film features cameos from various Hollywood stars playing famous comedians and actors of the era, adding to the authenticity of the storytelling.
• A Futile and Stupid Gesture blends archival footage with reenactments, giving audiences a glimpse into the real events that inspired the film.

Quotes

• "Comedy is first. That's the most important thing. Those are not rules, those are the laws of comedy." - Douglas Kenney
• "Satire is what closes on Saturday night." - Henry Beard

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack of the film includes a mix of iconic 1970s songs and original compositions that enhance the period setting of the story.