"COMEDIAN," being released on dvd by BUENA VISTA, is one of, if not the best, resources for aspiring comics, or even just fans of comedy, to understand what goes into being a comedian.  Jerry Seinfeld is the main focus of this documentary, but Director Christian Charles gives a lot of time to the lesser known "acts" as well.  Collin Quinn is hilarious, and pretty forthcoming in his conversations with Jerry, especially as he explains a "big" name can get a ten minute grace period on stage, but after that, the material better be good.

While "COMEDIAN" doesn't serve as a "paint-by-numbers" approach to stand-up, it does give a seemingly honest, no-holds-barred, look at the ups and "many" downs associated with the business. There's a great deal of pessimism expressed throughout the film, but then again, most of the comedians explored here, are extremely cynical, and this perspective obviously helps them create their material. 

Fans, ("who" isn't) of the series, "SEINFELD," will most likely be surprised at the genuine uncertainty of the comedian as he tries his new material on audiences.  A scene near the beginning, in which he really flubs on stage, having to repeatedly look at his notes, is impressive for its candor alone.

BUENA VISTA has preserved the film's 1.33:1 aspect ratio, and since it was shot entirely with a digital camera, the quality varies from scene to scene, depending on lighting.  The depth is generally decent, but fleshtones are inconsistent.  Contrast is also far from perfect, but none of these factors diminish from the overall entertainment quality of the film.

BUENA VISTA has presented options for either Dolby 2.0 Surround or Dolby Digital 5.1.  While the 2.0 is adequate, the 5.1 is more engulfing. In both, the sound is focused towards the front center channel, but music is better delegated to the surrounds in the 5.1 mix. Dialogue, all important here, is always intelligible and free from distortion.

BUENA VISTA has thrown in a bunch of extras! 

An audio commentary with Seinfeld and Colin Quinn, offers some enjoyable banter, and Seinfeld fans should enjoy it, even if there's nothing revelatory about it.  Another commentary is offered, featuring the producer and director, and it's the preferred option, for those interested in finding out more about the production details. 

A "DELETED SCENES" section is worth visiting. An option for commentary is offered these scenes, and they give interesting explanations for their deletions. 

"ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN" is a terrific section, exploring the marketing for this film. Don't miss it!

There are some other notable extras for this release, but none are as interesting as the marketing campaign, and the film alone, makes this worth recommending!