Paul Scheer, a comedian and actor from 'The Disaster Artist' and co-host of 'How Did This Get Made,' shares uproarious tales, including getting fired from an Eddie Murphy movie. He dives into the chaotic yet creative filmmaking behind 'The Disaster Artist' and 'Human Giant.' With humor and honesty, Scheer reflects on the ups and downs of performing stand-up and the eccentricities of owning exotic pets, including a hilarious monkey tale. The conversation also touches on the nuances of authenticity in storytelling and the unpredictable nature of comedy.
Paul Scheer shares humorous anecdotes from the film industry, highlighting the camaraderie and chaotic nature of collaborative projects like 'The Disaster Artist'.
The discussion emphasizes the tension between creative authenticity and the pressures from network executives that often dilute original artistic visions.
Insights into the differences in performing for large versus small audiences reveal how comedians must adapt their style based on venue dynamics.
Deep dives
Touring Excitement
The speaker shares his excitement about the ongoing comedy tour in 2025, highlighting sold-out shows in major cities such as Chicago, Durham, Atlanta, and Philadelphia. He encourages listeners to attend upcoming shows, mentioning the availability of standby tickets for sold-out venues. This personal touch fosters a sense of connection with the audience, urging them to come and experience the performances live. The energy surrounding the tour reflects a celebratory atmosphere, showcasing the joy of performing in front of enthusiastic crowds.
Candid Conversations
The episode features a candid conversation between the speaker and Paul Scheer about their shared experiences in the film industry, particularly while working on the quirky movie 'The Disaster Artist.' They discuss the oddly small trailers they had to share during filming and imparting humor through their recollections. The openness of their dialogue underscores the camaraderie in comedy, as they reminisce about hilarious moments from a project filled with passionate personalities. This highlights the entertaining yet chaotic nature of the film industry.
Creative Freedom in Comedy
Scheer reflects on the creative freedom they experienced while working on 'Human Giant,' despite initial fears about how network television might dilute their artistic vision. They recount anecdotes of pushback from network executives, particularly regarding absurd sketch concepts, which reinforces the tension between creative expression and commercial expectations. Scheer emphasizes the importance of maintaining authenticity in their work and navigating the challenges of producing content that resonates with audiences. The discussion illustrates the delicate balance between creative integrity and the realities of the television landscape.
Navigating Industry Challenges
The speakers delve into the difficulties of working with network executives who often impose restrictions on creative projects, leading to struggles in realizing original ideas. They discuss instances where valuable sketches had to be altered or discarded due to feedback that did not align with their vision, creating frustration and a feeling of loss. This highlights the relentless nature of networking dynamics in the entertainment industry, where projects can morph away from their initial conception. It underlines the importance of persistence and adaptability when collaborating with various stakeholders.
Reflections on Audience Engagement
The conversation touches upon the nuances of performing in large venues compared to intimate settings, revealing insights into audience interaction and engagement. The speaker notes that performing for bigger crowds requires a more performative approach, shifting away from directly connecting with individuals in the audience. This aspect of comedy performance is contrasted with the playful energy found in small venues, where laughter can be spontaneous and shared among fewer people. The reflections emphasize the evolving nature of performance art and the need for comedians to adapt their style based on the venue size.
Haunting Experiences
The episode includes an intriguing discussion about the supernatural, with anecdotes involving ghost sightings and haunted locations. They recount a story of a friend's child who experienced ghostly encounters in New Mexico, illustrating the eerie yet fascinating realm of the unexplained. The speakers share their own experiences with potential hauntings, using humor to navigate the topic while acknowledging the oddities of life and energy in old homes. This conversation adds a playful and whimsical layer to the episode, exploring the intertwining of reality and the unknown.
Paul joins the show to share hilarious stories like the time he got fired from an Eddie Murphy movie, and so much more! Check out his awesome podcast "How Did This Get Made" with Jason Mantzoukas & June Diane Raphael and grab a copy of his New York Times bestselling book, "Joyful Recollections of Trauma" out now!
