Watch Chris Gethard: Half My Life

Chris Gethard: Half My Life is a 2021 documentary directed by Kimberly Senior that chronicles the life and career of comedian Chris Gethard. The film features interviews with Gethard and his friends, family, and collaborators, as well as footage of his live performances. The film takes its name from the fact that Gethard has been performing comedy for half of his life, starting when he was just a teenager. He grew up in West Orange, New Jersey, and began his career doing stand-up in New York City clubs. He later gained a following through his work on public access television, where he hosted The Chris Gethard Show, a chaotic and irreverent variety show that aired for years and gained a cult following.

The film covers Gethard's early years in comedy and his rise to prominence through The Chris Gethard Show, but it also delves into his personal life and struggles with addiction and mental health. Gethard is candid about his experiences with depression and anxiety, and he speaks openly about his decision to seek therapy and get sober. He also reflects on the role that comedy has played in his life, both as a coping mechanism and as a way to connect with others.

Throughout the film, we see Gethard performing in a variety of contexts, from small comedy clubs to theaters filled with adoring fans. He's a natural performer, with a talent for improv and a willingness to push boundaries and take risks. We also see him collaborating with his friends and colleagues, including fellow comedian Carmen Christopher, who plays a central role in the documentary.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way that it captures the energy and excitement of live comedy. We see Chris performing in front of packed crowds, riffing on everything from his own experiences to current events to whatever random prompts the audience throws his way. We also see him behind the scenes, preparing for shows and debriefing with his collaborators afterward. It's clear that comedy is a labor of love for Gethard, and he takes it seriously even as he keeps things loose and silly on stage.

Another theme that runs throughout the film is Gethard's commitment to being authentic and vulnerable, both in his comedy and in his personal life. He talks openly about his struggles with addiction and mental health, and he's not afraid to take risks, even if it means failing in front of an audience. He also discusses the importance of creating a safe space for others to be themselves, whether that means encouraging open dialogue about mental health or providing a platform for marginalized voices.

Overall, Chris Gethard: Half My Life is a thoughtful and engaging documentary that offers a deep dive into the life and work of a unique and compelling comedian. It's a testament to the power of comedy to connect people and to the bravery it takes to be yourself, no matter what. If you're a fan of Chris Gethard's comedy, or if you're just interested in learning more about the world of stand-up and improv, this film is definitely worth checking out.

Chris Gethard: Half My Life is a 2021 comedy with a runtime of 54 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.