David Cross: Oh Come On

David Cross: Oh Come On is a stand-up comedy film released in 2019, featuring the unique talent of the acclaimed American comedian, writer, director, and actor David Cross. Known for his appearances in popular TV shows such as 'Mr. Show' and 'Arrested Development', this comedy special showcases Cross's distinctive style of hilarity in a more personal and unabashedly frank manner. Filmed in Asheville, North Carolina during the final performance of his "Oh Come On" tour, the film is Cross's exploration of humor in the everyday, the absurd, and the outrageously personal aspects of his life.

The film starts off with Cross taking the stage to greet a crowd full of enthusiasm and expectation. True to form, Cross immediately plunges into his act with the inventiveness and wit that have made him an iconic figure in the world of comedy. With his deft storytelling and astute observations, Cross takes the audience along on a memorable ride through current events, social conventions, and the personal trials and tribulations of being David Cross.

Throughout David Cross: Oh Come On, there's a balancing act between lighthearted humor and thought-provoking comedy. Cross never shies away from addressing serious issues. His humor is often steeped in satirical commentary on topics such as politics, societal norms, and human behavior. However, it's also often grounded in the absurdities of his own life, serving as both a form of social critique and personal catharsis. Amid the guffaws and belly laughs, there are moments of reflection where the audience can find themselves pondering the more profound ideas slipped cleverly between the punchlines.

Cross doesn't present himself as separate or above the subjects of his humor. Instead, he uses self-deprecating humor and introspective anecdotes to establish a connection with his audience. This personal connection facilitates an equality that isn’t often accomplished within the genre. Cross effortlessly oscillates between the personal and the universal, creating a comedic experience that feels both intimately personal and widely relatable.

His distinctive style consists of raw, unfiltered humor that’s entirely stripped of pretense. David Cross: Oh Come On takes full advantage of this, with Cross’s stage performance translating into a film that’s as refreshingly honest as it is hilarious. His willingness to bash societal norms and to delve into his own character flaws makes the narrative captivating and consistently funny. His unique brand of humor keeps the audience on its toes, never quite knowing what kind of hilarious curveball he might throw next.

At the same time, Cross’s wit and timing are complemented by his remarkable ability to bring a narrative full circle. Throughout the film, Cross constructs a seemingly disparate string of anecdotes and observations tied together by a thematic thread. This cohesion enhances the viewing experience, and it’s a testament to Cross’s skill as a performer and a storyteller. Even as he traverses into very different comedic territory, he always comes back around, weaving each element into a cohesive whole.

While the film may not offer many groundbreaking insights or revolutionary takes on comedy, what it does deliver is a comedic tour de force, showcasing one of the most innovative and irreverent voices in contemporary humor. The film, at the heart of it, is an hour-long stand-up set that's a representation of a performer at the peak of his craft.

David Cross: Oh Come On is a truly engaging watch, chalk full of laughs, but also unexpectedly poignant at times. It's Cross's commentary on life, served with a generous side of laughter. For fans of Cross's unique style or those just looking for an evening of intelligently crafted comedy, this film is a rewarding watch, presenting comedy that's sharp, playful, and unabashedly authentic.