Episode 79 : Waiting For Guffman

Comedic documentaries existed, but were scarce until Christopher Guest took the reins with WAITING FOR GUFFMAN. By directing, co-writing & starring in the film, Guest assembled a company of actors & manner of heartfelt storytelling. And twenty-five years post-release, GUFFMAN’s “comedy is reality, but one step further” philosophy has become one of the most popular genres.

 

**Discussions include**

Brief career history of Christopher Guest from the ‘70s to GUFFMAN; Guest’s relationship & creation process with writing partner, Eugene Levy; writing & shooting for a musical; inspirations for the story, style of comedy, creating a small town feel with universal relatability; use of improvisation, purposeful casting, character development; structure, editing process, production details, reception & release; discussion of script changes, omitted scenes, favorite moments & ranking our favorite of Guest’s films with this comedy troupe.

WAITING FOR GUFFMAN (1996)
Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Fred Willard, Parker Posey, Bob Balaban. Directed by Christopher Guest.

 

***Picks of the Week***

—Lindsay’s Pick:

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION (2006)

Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Parker Posey, Christopher Moynihan, Harry Shearer, plus all the usual suspects.
Directed by Christopher Guest.

—Justin’s Pick:

A MIGHTY WIND (2003)

Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, plus all the usual suspects.
Directed by Christopher Guest.

 

***MurrayMoment***

Billy & Christopher Guest’s time working on the National Lampoon Radio Hour, focusing on two recorded pieces, one featuring GUFFMAN player & Murray brother, Brian Doyle Murray.

 

***Final Thoughts on WAITING FOR GUFFMAN.***

 

Next Episode: BEVERLY HILLS COP!

 

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• Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders

Be Kind and Rewatch! // August 3, 2021