Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show
Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show

Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show

2017Movie95 minEnglish

It had all the makings of a huge television success: a white-hot comic at the helm, a coveted primetime slot, and a pantheon of future comedy legends in the cast and crew. So why did The Dana Carvey Show—with a writers room and cast including then unknowns Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Louis C.K., Robert Smigel, Charlie Kaufman, and more— crash and burn so spectacularly? TOO FUNNY TO FAIL tells the hilarious true story of a crew of genius misfits who set out to make comedy history… and succeeded in a way they never intended.

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IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users93%
Director: Dan BoecknerGenres: Documentary, Comedy

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the short-lived but impactful career of "The Dana Carvey Show," a sketch comedy series that aired on ABC in 1996. It explores the ambitious creative vision behind the show, the immense pressure it faced from the network, and the ultimate reasons for its abrupt cancellation after only seven episodes. The film features interviews with the show's creator, cast, and crew, reflecting on its legacy and the challenges of creating groundbreaking comedy.

Critical Reception

The documentary received largely positive reviews, with critics praising its insightful look into the volatile world of network television and the creative process behind a famously ill-fated show. Reviewers often highlighted the compelling interviews and the nostalgic yet analytical approach to the subject matter. It's seen as a fascinating case study in television production and the intersection of artistic ambition with commercial demands.

What Reviewers Say

  • A fascinating and often hilarious look at a legendary TV disaster.
  • Offers great insight into the pressures and compromises of network television.
  • Features excellent interviews with a talented cast and crew.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the documentary's candid exploration of the show's creation and cancellation. Many found it to be an entertaining and informative behind-the-scenes look at a show they remembered fondly, or were curious about. The interviews and the retrospective analysis of the comedy were frequently cited as highlights.

Fun Fact

Despite its short run, "The Dana Carvey Show" is credited with giving early exposure to future stars like Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, and Rob Riggle, many of whom went on to achieve significant success in comedy.

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