Laughter With a Side of Advocacy

Read Time:3 Minute, 59 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Laugh Proud
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Genre: Comedy Special
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director(s): Quentin Lee
Cast: Jason Stuart, Kit DeZolt, Amanda Alvich, Christian Cintron, Brian Clark (aka Brucey,) Rowan Niles, Seven Graham, Juno Men, Asha Hall, Jazzmun Nichcala Crayton
Where To Watch: releasing theatrically in Los Angeles on May 17, 2024 and VOD on May 30

RAVING REVIEW: LAUGH PROUD celebrates the stand-up comedy landscape by integrating a rich spectrum of LGBTQIA+ voices, from those new to the stage to seasoned vets like Jason Stuart and the ground-breaking Seven Graham, also known as 7G. This experience is more than just a series of comedy sketches; it's a bold celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of representation.

Navigating through the vibrant journey of LAUGH PROUD, viewers are treated to a pioneering blend of humor with just the right pinch of heartfelt storytelling. Directed by Quentin Lee, this film entertains and serves as a beacon of inclusivity, echoing voices who deserve to have their stories heard by the mainstream. Lee, with a history of challenging traditional comedic work as seen in "Comedy InvAsian," continues to amplify underrepresented narratives, setting the groundwork for his upcoming project aimed at spotlighting Indigenous Canadian comedians.

Amanda Alvich emerges as a standout performer, bringing her unique comedic talents to the forefront. With a New York Emmy to her name and notable appearances on platforms like NBC and Amazon Prime, Alvich's influence on the comedy circuit is undeniable. Her achievements at the New York Comedy Festival and her role as a semi-finalist in the New York Queer Comedy Festival further highlight her significant contribution to evolving modern comedy.

Injecting his unique blend of humor, Brian Clark, known on stage as Brucey, draws upon his rich Latin heritage to explore the nuances of adult life with a comedic twist. Beyond the laughter, Brucey's engagement with his online audience showcases his skill in connecting with viewers far beyond the confines of traditional venues.

Christian Cintron adds a unique dimension to the ensemble with his combination of comedy, writing, and spiritual insight. His initiative "Stand Up 4 Your Power" illustrates the transformative potential of laughter, promoting comedy as a therapeutic medium for personal and societal healing.

The special also celebrates 7G, a trailblazer as the first openly intersex comedian to perform at the iconic Comedy Store. Beyond the stage, 7G advocates for the visibility and rights of LGBTQIA+, intersex, and trans communities, notably through their influential film work, including "Ponyboi."

Contributing their distinctive voices, Asha Hall and Juno Men enhances the journey with their unique perspectives and performances. Hall merges her comedic flair with artistic pursuits, while Men, a transgender and Asian comedian, shares her insights shaped by her experiences and heritage.

Guiding the audience through this diverse lineup, host Jazzmun Nichcala Crayton brings an infectious charisma to the stage. Her deep commitment to the transgender community is evident through her activism, particularly with the Midnight Stroll initiative, which combines advocacy with her role in entertainment.

Quentin Lee’s career trajectory, from his breakthrough at the Toronto International Film Festival to his ventures into diverse stand-up comedy, underscores his unwavering commitment to diversifying the entertainment industry.

LAUGH PROUD is a cultural landmark that fosters dialogue, embraces change, and champions diversity. This special invites audiences to appreciate the evolution of stand-up comedy as a form of social commentary, paving the way for an experience that entertains, inspires, and connects on a deeper level. Through LAUGH PROUD, comedy transcends traditional boundaries, becoming a movement that heralds a new era of inclusivity and creativity in the cinematic world.

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[photo courtesy of MARGIN FILMS]

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