#113 Weightless
Mum. Fame. Genius. Stunts. Emotions.
Issue #113 Weightless
8th May 2024
Hello.
I’m not sure if this is against the rules* but today is my mum’s birthday and it’s a special one.
(one with a 0 at the end of it)
So I just wanted to say that I think the world of her.
She is creative to her very core. She makes beautiful things and puts them out in the world. And she’s kind even when no one is watching (which is the only way that counts).
Happy Birthday, Linda Mead. Xx
*my newsletter, my rules
Rule of three
[Documentary] Steve! (Martin)
The subtitle of this Steve Martin retrospective is a documentary in 2 pieces. For me, it packed one hell of an emotional punch. Two things I learned.
1) Just how big Steve Martin was at the height of his fame.
2) That fame doesn’t bring you happiness.
I lied. I already knew that second one. But this makes the case with such eloquence.
[Podcast] Evil Genius
An excellent idea for a podcast. A panelist of comedians discuss a historical figure that is generally considered to be a genius. Then three envelopes are opened with shocking revelations that are not widely known about them. Each episode ends with a binary decision - were they in fact a genius or were they EVIL!!!
[Movie] The Fall Guy
Look, I’m not saying this is a perfect movie. Or maybe even a great one. But it is definitely a massive amount of uncomplicated fun. It’s about a stunt man - and the makers have leant into that by pulling off the most incredible series of physical stunts I’ve seen in decades at the cinema. They are so good that they make every other CGI-reliant film of the last 10 years feel weightless and flat by comparison. Also HOT TAKE, Ryan Gosling is funny and handsome.
Longform thoughts
When I’m onstage, I’ll concentrate all my awareness and energy on my scene partner.
When I’m offstage, I’ll pay attention to what’s happening onstage but let my mind tell me stories.
This week I’m answering a question about the complex relationship between good storytelling and emotional depth in improv - The sweet spot.
Radio contact
Radio hug.
the documentary that explores the life and career of Steve Martin. It’s an emotional and insightful look at his journey from stand-up comedy to acting, Love Pawsona writing, and beyond.
I'm not sure whether this is against the rules, but my mother's birthday is today Sprunki Game , and it's a really important day.