User reviews

"Fall and then figure out what to do on the way down." Miles (Birbiglia) has been running a improv troupe for many years and is still waiting for his big break. Everyone in the group is excited when scouts from the show Weekend Live show up one night. Everyone is riding high after the show but when Jack (Key) is the only one chosen the lives of every start to change. Reality hits everyone and they all begin to wonder what their lives are really about. This is a good movie, but not really for everyone. There is some funny comedy in this, but the movie is really more or less a character study of a group of very different people all trying for the same goal. The movie is more dramatic than I expected and feels very real, which adds to the enjoyment of this. Overall, funny and just real. Not for everyone, feels like a stage play but I did like it. I give this a B.

"Don't Think Twice" is a real, heartfelt dramedy about a improv comedy troupe named "The Communes". The film begins after this troupe has been going for maybe over a decade, and all of its members are in their 30s and still have day jobs to get by (except for Lindsay, who has rich parents). The film starts with their preparation for a show, and it shows their connection to each other.

Improv comedy is about the group, as one of the three rules in the beginning of the film states, but this film is about each character, and how they let go of the group and move on. Unlike many comedy films today, the comedy in the film is character based, and since the characters are the main focus of the film, the comedy is intertwined with every scene. It isn't a film that has "jokes" necessarily, but its a film about funny moments because of the interaction between the characters, which is very similar to improv.

As stated in the beginning of the film, there is no losing in improv. Even as they fall, they can make it good on the way down, and they do that in real life and in their improv towards the beginning of the film. The problems begin to arise when the rules they could follow so easily before begin to fall apart. They said it was all about the group, but they can't progress in their career and get on "Weekend Live" (an obvious jab at SNL) if they don't worry only about themselves. They can't say yes to everything if they have to look out for themselves first. They have to think first if they're doing written material.

The highlight of the film is its performances and writing, but it is a visually interesting film in some regards. Scenes are shot with care and attention to the state of the characters. For instance, there is one scene in which Samantha is doing her last improv show alone, and during her performance she realizes that, even though she loves them, she likes being away from her troupe, and especially Jack. The scene is shot closer to her face and with a mire shallow depth of view as it progresses and she becomes more satisfied with her independence.

So, obviously the group begins to fall apart after Jack goes to "Weekend Live", but they end up accepting their maturity and realizing the only way they could keep the group together is to let each person do what's best for themselves.

This is the kind of film Judd Apatow wants to make: it isn't shot boringly, the comedy is real, the characters are relatable, and the drama doesn't feel forced.

"I think for anyone - male or female - in improv, the biggest thing to get over is the fear. I think every improviser has that." Rachel Dratch

Don't Think Twice makes you think more than once about not just the enormous demands of comedy, including fear of failure, but also about doing anything for a profession that may give you little to no compensation other than the joy of doing what you love and are good at.

More than anything else, this comedy makes a poignant comment on the irony of talented people making it while other talents struggle never to be recognized. Miles (writer-director Mile Birbiglia) feels it painfully as he sees Jack (Keegan-Michael Key) win a spot on Weekend Live (no doubt, Saturday Night Live) while Miles and his other colleagues labor in the lesser venue of NYC on the improv team, The Commune.

As the title of their improv group suggests, their work is communal, depending on an effort for which individual spotlights have no place. Ironically, Jack wins the Weekend Live job partially by standing out doing a solo routine even though his colleagues warned him against it.

Don't Think Twice does an effective job of showing the inherent contradictions of communal support and individual talent. In the matter of a romance between Jack and Sam (Gillian Jacobs), the tensions between their emerging rewards for their talent and sacrifice are subtly displayed in their loving routines and their personal love.

You would not be surprised to know how difficult it would be to determine which bits in the movie are improv and which are rehearsed, so good are the performers. Even that puzzle supports a theme about the intersection of reality and artifice, a benign clash between the creative improvisation and the spontaneity of life itself. Both bring their rewards and disappointments.

Here is a comedy with touches of real life--hey, I think that's what life itself is all about.

Hi film makers. Here a free tip. Never make movies about people that are supposed to be funny, and then show what is supposed to be funny. No actor ever, ever ever ever, manages to make that not cringe worthy. They come close here, but maybe as close as anyone ever will be.

Here the thing: We see a lot of improv comedy, and it is supposed to be funny, and the audience is laughing because it's funny. (in other words, we are told that is funny or not) Here's the problem: we get to see what the audience is seeing and it's NOT funny. That really takes me out of it. And even if it WERE funny, we would know it was probably scripted, and scripted improv, well that's not very funny. (I realize the improv scenes a probably a blend of script and not, any-who, it not funny)

Let's say you made a movie about the worlds funniest joke. It would be a lot smarter to not show the actual joke and just let the mind wonder about it. As soon a you show the joke, well, it ruins it, because chances are it's not the funniest joke ever. See?

OK. With that said! Most of the improv seems quite natural though, and the acting is good. I didn't find the movie very funny, but I think where it shines is in the drama. Because this movie has some pretty good, heart felt points about human behavior. It's got some tense scenes, and quite a few times it hits quite close to home. (At one time I was like: wow, that character is me. NOT gonna say who)

I sort of wish they had solved the improv-thing in another way, by maybe not showing so much of it, or making it supposed to be cringey. I don't know.

It's a sad movie, not really a feel good one, and that's good.

LJ'S QUICK MOVIE REVIEW

"Don't Think Twice", directed by Mike Birbiglia, is light-hearted comedy that follows the story of a small, six-member improv group called The Commune. The Commune is essentially a closely knit team, with each member complementing the other.

However, when Jack, an ambitious member of The Commune, gets the opportunity to join 'Weekend Live!' (a huge entertainment company), he faces a unique situation. He wants to achieve greater success, but doesn't want to leave his faithful and hardworking team behind.

The well-written script is elevated by the great organic performances put forth by Keegan-Michael Key (Jack), Gillian Jacobs, Birbiglia, and the rest of the cast. Every single character has moments of self-doubt, self-discovery, and emotional conflict.

Overall, "Don't Think Twice" is definitely a comedy worth watching because it explores the themes of envy, loyalty, and a sense of belonging through dynamic characters we can all relate to.

LJ's Grade: B

Don't Think Twice is a tremendously satisfying film about a very specific world, and anybody familiar with the gruelling hustle of comics, writers and improvisers vying for any measure of success in those fields will recognize many of the characters and small details that Mike Birbiglia has written into this film. Outsiders, though, don't have to worry that this is all "inside baseball" for comedy nerds because the emotions and relationships that propel this film are pretty universal. Driven by a talented ensemble and featuring as many poignant moments as genuine laugh lines, this humble film may stick with you a lot longer than you'd expect.

"Don't Think Twice" (2016 release; 90 min.) brings the story of a fictional improv group in New York. As the movie opens, we get a thumbnail introduction on improv ("1. Say yes; 2. It's all about the group; 3. Don't think") and then we are introduced to The Commune, consisting of 6 improv performers. It's not long before two of them are asked to audition for Weekend Live, a Saturday Night Live-type show. This could be the big break they've always dreamt about! At this point, we're 10 min. into the movie, but to tell you more of the plot would spoil your viewing experience, you'll just have to see for yourself how it all plays out.

Couple of comments: this is another tour de force from Mike Birbiglia, whose 2012 debut feature film "Sleepwalk With Me" was one of my favorite movies of the year. Here Birbiglia writes, directs, produces and stars in a bittersweet look at the lives of improv performers who can barely get by financially, but they are nevertheless quite happy with their lives. Or are they? I must tell you, I knew some, but not a whole lot, about the movie going into the theater today. The fact that this was a Birbiglia product was enough for me. I had expected a funny, maybe even laugh-out-loud, movie. Turns out that, while there are some funny moments here and there, this is not a 'comedy' as I understand that term, but rather a drama about ordinary people facing difficult career choices, At one point the group is watching Weekend Live, and one of them comments "Very skillful, but not funny', and one could apply that label to this film as well. The ensemble's acting performances are superb, none more so for me than Gillian Jacobs as the ever hopeful and determined improv performer.

"Don't Think Twice" opened this weekend at my local art-house theater here in Cincinnati and I couldn't wait to see it. The Saturday matinée screening where I saw this at was PACKED if you can believe that. I wonder if others in the theater felt like me, namely expecting a funny moving but instead getting a bittersweet movie about life instead. Regardless, I enjoyed the movie from start to finish. "Don't Think Twice" is most definitely worth checking out, be it in the theater, on Amazon Instant Video or eventually on CVC/Blu-ray.

One of the best movies of the year. Grounded, realistic, funny, and bittersweet. If you want a pure comedy, this isn't the movie for you. It certainly is funny, but it is also spend a fair chunk of the movie on characters and conflict. It's dramatic parts actually ended up working better than the comedic elements for me.

The acting was surprisingly very good for actors who have made their names in comedy and improv. Gillian Jacobs and Chris Gethard were the standouts, though each of the actors has at least one standout moment.

Not for everyone certainly, but very good and one of the best of the year. I think I'll finally get around to seeing Birbiglia's other movie "Sleepwalk With We" now.

From the director of 'Sleepwalk with Me', another similar kind of theme, but this time a little bigger that concerns a group of people. The film was focused on the members of an improv troupe called the Commune. They are not the big shots, but everything was going well with their performances. Soon the Commune begins to fall apart when one of the member decides to try on his luck in a bigger platform. Slows the troupe loses its charm and what is its future was told on the later parts.

I can't say it is overrated, but I did not find it funny or entertaining. The story of the film characters, like how they fall apart and how they try fix it was very interesting. Like it said in the film, the comedies looked funny, but it was not. Honestly, I did not get that improv part. Maybe because that is an American thing, I'm totally not into it, in fact, I came to know it with this film only. For me it is an average film, so I don't know I can suggest it to anybody. But who knows, you might like it better than me.

6/10

One great quality of the film is that the acting feels natural, actual people having actual conversations. But the actors are pretty much playing themselves. It's cheating, but still entertaining.

Aside from one shallow trait (this one likes to draw, this one has rich parents, this one is Gillian Jacobs, etc.), the characters are the same person: Snarky, mopey, likes to mess with people, and appreciates the art of impov.

Rants about growing old and how following your dreams can be a nightmare are sprinkled throughout the movie, but not in a painful way.

I would value this movie more if I haven't seen so many indie comedies that talk about the same thing.

Unless you're not tired of indie movies yet and you still like seeing your favorite indie comedy actors do stuff, you'll probably just shrug your shoulders.

There is always someone out there that is going to say a certain movie is great simply because it has that "artsy" or "independent" feel to it, regardless if the movie is good or not. That is the only reason this movie can have the overly generous rating it has.

I get that it's not a comedy, but shouldn't at least the few improv scenes they show be mildly funny? OK so I got over that I wasn't going to laugh at all during the movie, but then for a drama it was simply flat and boring. I never felt anything for the characters, even though the acting wasn't bad. The "commune" actors didn't seem to have a believable chemistry to where you really felt for them.

I grasped that the movie wasn't really plot-driven and its intent was to show struggling actors and how they deal with things like selfishness, self doubt, compassion, etc., but I just found the presentation of it a big yawner.

Well the movie is a hard look at anyone in their thirties who's still trying to follow that dream and it's a struggle, but you just can't give up on it, even though it seems like you don't have what it takes.

The focus on Don't Think Twice is on a troop of improv actors, but it can apply literally to anyone.

Very harsh relating to something so relateable . Especially for anyone in these situations:

The place you're working at is being gentrified making it more expensive to do what you love.

Those who were once under your wing are now spreading theirs and seem to be flying higher than you ever did.

But you feel you're at the place you belong but no one else seems to get that as they move on to what seems to be better things.

Your not that old but everyone around you makes you feel that way because of where society makes you believe you belong at your age.

And you need a break, but you just can't find one.

If any of this rings a bell than Don't think Twice will be highly enjoyable for you because it's like looking into a Mirror as it Ironically, makes you think more than twice about yourself, and gives you a feel of contempt realizing that you are not alone.

I'm not sure the film is for everyone as it's not as funny as I thought it would be considering Keegan-Michael Key is in it. It is a smart comedy, but the thing about this intelligence is that it really does focus on a demographic.

There are few things that do go over generally, like all the characters experience with trying to get on Weekend Live (A perfect satire on Saturday Night Live).

Plus the improv itself made me giggle too.

Don't think Twice is definitely a personal favorite

http://cinemagardens.com/?p=75

this sucked. didn't finish it, and don't have to. not enticing enough for a drama, not funny enough for a comedy. Got halfway through without laughing. Enjoy a lot of these actors' past performances but this is trash. my review needs to be longer to post so this line is irrelevant. do not watch this movie

Don't Think Twice about seeing this film! This 2016 indie that stars Keegan-Michael Key & Mike Birbiglia expectedly hits its comedic notes. Surprisingly however, the film's main draw is its emotional oomph, as it tells a heart wrenching story of a an improv troupe, torn apart by unrealized dreams, jealousy & expectations. Birbiglia does wonders here, as every nook & cranny of this film brims with authenticity. From the engrossing warmth conveyed from the friendship of his characters, to the egotism-drenched reaction to success, Birbiglia paints a relatable yet bittersweet portrait of a comedian's life. He effectively shares a perspective as well, of the challenges of being one in this modern day & how selective & bleak, the path to success really is. Comedy is indeed a serious business.

While it certainly isn't a mind blowing film, Dont Think Twice boasts of a real & truthful story. Its effective storytelling roots from its Birbiglia's grasp of his craft, & its praise worthy sincerity was a pleasure to sympathize with.

Great insight into improv side of the comedy world and the struggles and emotions involved with trying to fulfill the dream of stardom. Both funny and touching,the film follows the ups and downs of each member of an improv troupe as they attempt to find their niche while dealing with day to day struggles with family, relationships and each other. It doesn't have light sabers or magical creatures, but if you can get past that (because you're an intelligent adult with a sense of humor) then I would recommend this film. The casting was perfect and I've added this film to a short list of movies that I can go back to at anytime and enjoy.

you can call it a "dark comedy" at best, but it is NOT a funny movie, unless you have a very low standard for making you laugh. it's not a very interesting story, and unless you can relate to being in an improv group, you probably will not enjoy anything about this movie.

I thought about shutting this off about 30 minutes in, and wish I would have, it didn't get better, it didn't get interesting, and definitely did NOT get funny...

snooze-fest!, unless you can relate for some reason, just give it a pass...

there is not a thing that will make you laugh...

I wanted to see this movie because it incorporated some of my favorite actors. I wasn't disappointed, not only by their performances, but by the writing itself. The movie was laugh out loud funny but also poignant and touching. I recommended it on Twitter and told everyone they should go see it. It was a great date movie too -- my husband and I, who often have fairly different tastes in movies and TV -- both really enjoyed it. It was sweet enough for me and had enough humor and action for him. I also love that it was an indie flick and a labor of love.

Highly recommend!

From the title itself, we are bombarded with the concept that this is going to be a movie about improv. As such, it would be assumed that this is going to be a dramedy or comedy about improv.

It's about an improv troupe, that's true enough, but it's not very funny outside of the actual improv performances, which are sometimes clever (not sure if they were scripted or not). It's just a straight drama, I would say.

Outside of their comedic performances, the characters are rather pathetic and depressing. Their behavior when socializing with people they don't know embodies this, as they're awkward and sycophantic. That's not to say it's bad or it's bad acting - pathetic characters have their place in cinema and "cringe" is certainly as valid a target of artistic expression as any.

As for the theme of this film, the opening scene is devoted to a brief history on improv, so the director really tried to shove this down our throats. Maybe it was meant to express that life is like improv in that unexpected things happen? How trite.

Fortunately, if this was the intention, it completely missed the mark. The main thrust is really about exploring the lives of people on the wrong side of 30 who were passionate about something - dare I say, devoted their lives to it - and don't end up accomplishing their ultimate goal before the big 4-0 (in this case to become TV famous).

Seems like lots of movies are doing this lately, but it's probably been around for a while. It was one of the subplots of "Death of a Salesman," let us not forget. What happens when someone turn 40 and find that the American Dream has passed them by after 4 decades of struggle? Do they accept their lot with dignity and cash out what little they can? Do they become embittered and pugnacious? Do they keep up the fight?

The theme here is effectively, if narrowly, explored.

When one member of the company gets a big break after decades of working the circuit, the other characters are all thrown into a jumble of emotions. Some are bitter and jealous, some are inspired to take a long look at their own lives, one comes to realise that doing what she loves was worth it despite not achieving society's measure of ultimate success.

Nevertheless, what we get here is far more pastel than The Hammer (2007), which handled this topic in a funnier, more touching, and more effective way. This film, in turn, is bland. The performances and humour are very subdued. It's also narrow - it offers no resolution and just explores the characters' emotional reactions to their frienemy's success.

Honourable Mentions: Don't Look Now (1973). This movie's title sounds as sinister as the 1973 horror classic. Big shoes to fill for such a good title and "Don't Think Twice" couldn't do it.

I'm feeling generous today so I will give this movie a four stars rating. But that's because I'm generous. Because honestly when I watch a comedy I want to laugh and have fun a little bit. With Don't Think Twice I can count the times I laughed on both hands, or even on one hand. Actually I don't need hands at all because I didn't laugh once. And that, for being a comedy about improv is pretty sorry. Not sorry for me because in all modesty I think I have a great sense of humor, but sorry for the so-called comedians in this movie. They are everything but funny. I can't speak for Keegan-Michael Key because I'm naturally allergic to that guy. His jokes never made me laugh. When I used to watch The Planet's Funniest Animals it was clearly not for his two cents jokes but to see some funny animal videos. In Don't Think Twice all the other comedians have the same level of humor as him, and that is nonexistent. So I give it a four stars because of the drama. I'm not into drama, but that was the only positive thing about this movie.

Don't Think Twice is a thoughtful film but not really a funny comedy of a New York based improvisational troupe called The Commune whose members have to re-examine their goals when one of them has been recruited to a Saturday Night Live type show.

Jack (Keegan-Michael Key) life begins to change as he needs to keep his new television paymasters happy, he slowly retreats from his comedy pals some of them who are jealous of his success.

Director/writer/actor Mike Birbiglia has written a love letter to improvisational comedy and the stage scenes were improvised. The actors who got training for this type of comedy perform it well but as with much improvisational comedy it never is that funny.

The drama of one person's success on the others does make for a better drama and watch our for a Ben Stiller cameo.