What Now (2015)

What Now (2015): A Hilarious Dive into the World of Stand-Up Comedy

"What Now" is a 2015 American comedy film, a unique blend of stand-up performance and narrative storytelling that offers an intimate look at the life and career of comedian Kevin Hart. Known for his outstanding comedic timing and energetic performances, Kevin Hart didn't just star in this movie; he also took the helm as one of its directors, making this film a passionate project that gave audiences a fresh perspective on his humor and personality.

Overview and Plot

Unlike traditional narrative films, "What Now" is predominantly a filmed version of Kevin Hart's stand-up comedy tour, also titled "What Now?" The movie captures Hart as he performs live at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia in October 2014, making it one of the largest venues ever to host a comedy show captured for film. With an incredible energy that fills the arena, Hart delivers his trademark brand of comedy, touching on topics such as family life, relationships, and the challenges and absurdities of everyday experiences.

The film ingeniously weaves in scripted narrative segments between performances, which delve into Hart's character, setting up scenarios that amplify the humor in his stand-up routine. This hybrid approach enriches the viewing experience by showcasing both the raw power of his live show and added elements of storytelling that flesh out his comedic observations.

Main Cast

• Kevin Hart as himself – The heart and soul of the movie, Hart's captivating stage presence and witty commentary drive the entire film.
• W.E. Bell as the lead in narrative sequences – Supporting Kevin Hart, Bell adds an engaging dynamic in the scripted segments that help contextualize some jokes.
• Various audience members and other comedians appear throughout the film, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.

Direction and Writing

Kevin Hart, alongside Tim Story and Leslie Small, directed "What Now," bringing together a team that had previously collaborated on Hart's successful "Ride Along" movies. Their combined expertise created a seamless film that balanced live performance with cinematic storytelling.

The film's writing credits include Kevin Hart, who crafted much of the stand-up material, and co-writers Tim Story and Leslie Small, who helped adapt the live show into a compelling movie format. Hart’s sharp and relatable humor shines throughout the script, making the jokes both personal and widely appealing.

Music and Soundtrack

Being a comedy special with live performance segments, "What Now" does not centrally focus on a traditional soundtrack with songs and musical performances. However, the film’s score complements the high-energy atmosphere of the live show, emphasizing moments of laughter and audience reaction without distracting from the comedy. The movie's musical accompaniment is subtle, designed to enhance the cinematic feel of the stand-up routine.

Reception and Impact

"What Now" was released on October 14, 2016, and was met with a positive reception, especially by fans of stand-up comedy and Kevin Hart’s work. It holds a special place as a film that captures the essence of live comedic performance in a grand setting, offering viewers who might not have the chance to attend a live show a chance to experience the energy and humor firsthand.

The movie grossed over $23 million, indicating its commercial success. Critical response highlighted Hart’s dynamic stage presence and the innovative fusion of stand-up comedy with narrative filmmaking.

Conclusion

In essence, "What Now" (2015) is not just a movie—it's a comedic event that showcases the brilliance of Kevin Hart as a performer, writer, and director. The film's blend of live stand-up and cinematic storytelling brings new life to the comedy film genre, making it an entertaining watch for anyone who enjoys laughter, clever insights into daily life, and an unforgettable showmanship experience.

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