The Aristocrats
The Aristocrats

The Aristocrats

2005Movie89 minEnglish

One hundred superstar comedians tell the same very, VERY dirty, filthy joke--one shared privately by comics since Vaudeville.

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Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes74%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users80%
Director: Paul ProvenzanoGenres: Documentary, Comedy

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the legendary, often offensive, but universally known "Aristocrats" joke, which comedians have been telling for decades. It features numerous famous comedians and performers recounting their own versions of the joke and discussing its cultural impact and subversive humor. The film delves into the history and evolution of the joke, showcasing its versatility and enduring legacy in stand-up comedy.

Critical Reception

The Aristocrats received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its unique premise and the star-studded lineup of comedic talent. While some found the joke itself to be tiresome, most appreciated the film's exploration of its cultural significance and the comedians' performances. It was lauded as a fascinating look into the underbelly of comedy and the shared experiences of performers.

What Reviewers Say

  • A fascinating, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, exploration of a legendary dirty joke.
  • Celebrates the art of comedic storytelling and the shared history of stand-up comedians.
  • Relies heavily on the performances of its many famous participants.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the documentary's meta-commentary on comedy and the sheer number of famous comedians featured. While many found the joke itself to be overused, they enjoyed the behind-the-scenes insights into comedic creativity and the collaborative spirit among performers.

Fun Fact

The joke, in various forms, has been in circulation since at least the early 20th century, with early written accounts appearing in the 1920s and 1930s.

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