Dying to Do Letterman
When 35 year old stand-up comedian Steve Mazan learned he was dying of cancer, he dedicated the rest of his life to making his dream come true: performing comedy on The Late Show with David Letterman. This documentary chronicles his five-year journey, as he races his own ticking clock to achieve a nearly impossible goal. Hilarious and heart-breaking, Steve brings a brand-new perspective to living with cancer. This is a story that proves it's not how much time you have, it's what you do with it. As Steve says, 'If you stop chasing your dreams, you're already dead.'
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary follows Rob E. Nelson's ambitious and humorous attempt to get into the audience of The Late Show with David Letterman. Over a period of 21 years, Nelson meticulously planned his visits, often traveling from his home in Wisconsin to New York City, developing elaborate strategies and memorable signs to catch Letterman's attention. The film chronicles his persistent dedication and the unique relationship he builds with the show and its crew from afar.
Critical Reception
Dying to Do Letterman received generally positive reviews, praised for its quirky charm and heartfelt exploration of fandom. Critics appreciated Nelson's earnest dedication and the film's ability to capture the essence of a lifelong, albeit unconventional, pursuit. While some found the narrative a bit slow-paced at times, the overall sentiment was that it's a delightful and endearing look at a unique fan's unwavering commitment.
What Reviewers Say
- A charming and earnest documentary about a dedicated fan's quest.
- Nelson's persistent pursuit of getting on David Letterman's show is both amusing and endearing.
- Offers a heartwarming look at the power of fandom and perseverance.
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Fun Fact
Rob E. Nelson's quest to get on The Late Show with David Letterman spanned over two decades, during which he saw the show transition from NBC to CBS and witnessed numerous iconic moments and guests.
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