Care to Laugh

Care to Laugh, a film from 2018, traces the compelling journey of upcoming comedian Jesus Trejo as he struggles to find balance between his developing career and his expanding family responsibilities. Directed by Julie Getz, the documentary is a heartwarming and inspiring exploration of how this young man is negotiating his way through his dual roles as a caring son and an ambitious comedian.

Born into an immigrant family settled in Long Beach, California, Jesus Trejo was no stranger to working hard and committedly. Family values were deeply ingrained in his upbringing, particularly the principles of respect, responsibility, and dedication. These values later became Trejo's guiding star when he decided to pursue a career in stand-up comedy while simultaneously becoming the primary caregiver for his elderly parents. Despite the challenges and difficulties of juggling between these two demanding roles, Trejo's resilience, love, and humor shine through in every scene.

The film, as the title "Care to Laugh" suggests, integrates the themes of caregiving and comedy seamlessly, offering an authentic portrayal of Trejo's life. His journey is as relatable as it is unique, reflecting the dreams, struggles, and hopes of many immigrants and their children across the globe.

As a stand-up comedian, Trejo's style is peppered with innocuous humor and side-splitting jokes. He does not hesitate to draw from his own experiences as an immigrant and a caregiver, creating a narrative that is deeply personal, raw, and real. His onstage persona radiates energy, and it is evident that his comedy is a significant part of his identity, as a person and as a son.

Simultaneously, the film delves into Trejo's life offstage, carefully documenting his evolving relationship with his aging parents. This dynamic adds a profound emotional depth to the film, contrasting with the lively atmosphere of Trejo's comedic world. It is in these quiet moments where Trejo's compassion comes to the fore, as he cooks for his diabetic mother, helps his visually-impaired father, or spends time making them laugh.

Care to Laugh is not just a biographical exploration of Trejo's life. Instead, it is a singular testimony to the power of compassion and laughter in dealing with life's heaviest burdens. The film underscores Trejo's character — his determination, his resilience, his penchant for brightening up rooms with his off-the-cuff humor. With strong storytelling, the film manages to strike the right balance of pathos and wit, mirroring Trejo's own ability to find humor amidst hardship.

Contributing to the documentary's allure is the skillful cinematography, capturing both the rousing highs of Trejo's comedic performances and the solemnity in his parents' struggles with health issues. The narrative is made more powerful through these intimate visual details, bringing each aspect of Trejo's life – the stage, his parents’ home, the hospital rooms – into sharp focus.

The film also has a carefully constructed soundtrack that syncs perfectly with the narrative's ebb and flow. The pacing of the film cleverly captures the relentless rhythm of Trejo's life – from his adrenaline-charged performances to the quieter, tender moments with his parents.

The documentary’s focus is narrowed on the growth and evolution of Trejo as he learns, stumbles, and perseveres. It showcases how he refines and reshapes his comedic material based on his life experiences, using these hard-earned lessons to fuel his passion for stand-up comedy.

All in all, Care to Laugh introduces audiences to a resilient, determined comedian who is far more than his jokes. Jesus Trejo embodies the spirit of a hardworking dreamer and a devoted son, using humor to cope with life's challenges. With a perfect blend of humor and heart, this film is a testament to the power of laughter, even in the face of adversity.

Part comedy, part drama, and all heart, Care to Laugh is a raw, authentic, and inspiring film that showcases the power of humor and compassion. As a character study, it explores the complex dual life of a devoted son and a rising comedian. Yet, at its core, it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connectivity and humor. For anyone seeking a film with depth, humor, and a story that resonally deeply, Care to Laugh is a must-watch.