Ep 3. Are You Popular?

RiffTrax Shorts is back with another hilarious episode, this time featuring the 1947 instructional film, "Are You Popular?" This black and white short film aimed at teenagers provides a comical look into what it takes to be popular in the 1940s.

The film features several vignettes with teenagers in various social situations, from dances to hanging out at a diner. Each scene showcases what makes someone popular and what doesn't, according to the narrator. The film attempts to provide the viewer with a step-by-step guide on how to be popular, including tips on fashion, grooming, and attitude.

But RiffTrax sees through the film's dated advice and delivers non-stop laughs with their witty commentary. The cast, consisting of Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett, bring their signature humor to the table as they hilariously pick apart each scene. They poke fun at the over-the-top acting and cheesy dialogue, while also commenting on the ridiculous tips the film provides.

For example, at one point, the film advises girls to never cry in public, as it is seen as a sign of weakness. RiffTrax cleverly points out the absurdity of this advice, stating that everyone cries and it's perfectly okay to show vulnerability. They also humorously point out the gender stereotypes prevalent throughout the film, such as the idea that girls should always defer to boys and be passive in social situations.

RiffTrax also takes aim at the film's attempts to be cool and relevant to teenagers at the time. They make fun of the awkward dance moves displayed by the actors and mock the overly dramatic music used to score certain scenes. They also poke fun at the film's attempts at humor, which often fall flat.

But despite the film's shortcomings, RiffTrax still manages to find comedic gold within it. They riff on everything from the outdated fashion trends to the absurd dialogue, all while providing a fresh perspective on a piece of 1940s pop culture.

Overall, "Are You Popular?" is another standout episode of RiffTrax Shorts, providing endless laughs for both fans of the show and newcomers alike. The cast's hilarious commentary and quick wit make this episode a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.