Punchline
Punchline

Punchline

1988Movie123 minEnglish

Lilah Krytsick is a mother and housewife who's always believed she could be a stand-up comedian. Steven Gold is an experienced stand-up seemingly on the cusp of success. When the two meet, they form an unlikely friendship, and Steven tries to help the untried Lilah develop her stage act. Despite the objections of her family and some very wobbly beginnings, Lilah improves, and soon she finds herself competing with Steven for a coveted television spot.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes50%
Google Users72%
Director: James D. ParriottGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A stand-up comedy wannabe tries to make it big in the competitive San Francisco comedy scene, dealing with personal struggles and the challenges of the industry. Her path crosses with a more established comic, leading to a complex relationship as they both navigate the highs and lows of pursuing laughter for a living. The film explores the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed in comedy.

Critical Reception

Punchline received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who praised the performances of Sally Field and Tom Hanks, as well as the film's attempt to delve into the serious side of stand-up comedy. However, some critics found the film's tone uneven and its narrative occasionally unfocused.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for strong lead performances, particularly Sally Field.
  • Appreciated for its attempt to explore the dramatic side of comedy.
  • Criticized for an uneven tone and sometimes disjointed narrative.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's focus on the struggles of aspiring comedians and the compelling performances by the main cast. Some viewers felt the film could have been funnier, while others connected with the emotional depth of the characters' journeys.

Awards & Accolades

Sally Field received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

Fun Fact

Tom Hanks and Sally Field would later reunite for the critically acclaimed television series 'Brothers & Sisters', playing mother and son.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review