Movie Reviews: A Round Of Applause For The Opening Act
There is a benefit of movies being shuffled around because of Covid. Smaller movies have been given the chance to shine. One such film is ‘The Opening Act’. A truly underrated gem about persistence and not giving up on your dreams. And for fans of stand-up comedy, a real eye-opening look into the life of an aspiring comic.
Will Chu (Jimmy O. Yang) is a comedic hopeful that gets the opportunity of a lifetime to host a comedy show featuring a well-known comic, Billy G. (Cedric the Entertainer). Along the way, he’s met with challenges, some of which make him question his dream of being a comic.
A lot of films follow the same philosophy as ‘The Opening Act’. Follow your dreams, be met with struggle, have a revelation. That’s essentially what Yang’s character goes through. What he thought was the career for him, suddenly doesn’t seem to be his ideal career choice. If not for guidance by Billy G, and fellow comedian/weekend roommate, Chris (Alex Moffat), Chu would have given up.
I applaud how director, and real-life stand-up comedian, Steve Byrne, portrayed the character of Chu. He likely based this character off himself, or rather another comic looking to get their big break. A lot of the viewing audience will see themselves in Chu, regardless of being a comedian or not.
The real meat and potatoes of ‘The Opening Act’ is the ongoing approval Chu seeks from Billy G. Cedric The Entertainer does a remarkable job playing the mentor. Like a lot of films, he’s hesitant at first, but as he sees the potential his views change. It’s that tough love approach that shines through. A lot of the advice Billy dishes outcomes from an old school state of mind. He’s wise, insightful, and above all, while he might not show it, willing to mentor.
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Of course, Cedric isn’t the only one who plays a supporting role. Moffat’s character, Chris, might seem like a playboy, but he knows the game. He helps Chu see not only the positives but negatives of showbusiness, even if a lot of his ways are unintentional. There is a scene that, while brief, really hammers home what it means to persevere, and Moffat nails that.
For a film centered around stand-up comedy, there are a lot of laughs to be found. However, it almost takes more of a dramatic tone at times. Not saying that’s bad, as it adds to the message and story of Chu, you just do expect more comedy. There are slapstick style scenes and humor, but Byrne wanted to create a realistic film.
The dramatic nature of the film doesn’t play out as it should. This film feels like it should be a raunchy comedy. When you don’t get that, it starts to lose some of its appeals. Still, don’t let that sway you. The payoff of Chu’s character arc is redeeming, and it’s worth enduring some of the dramatic moments for that alone.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted comedy that has both raunchy humor and dramatic tones and story, this is for you. Don’t skip out on it because it’s not a big-budget film.
Image Source: RLJE Films
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
