Totally Bill Hicks

Totally Bill Hicks is a fascinating two-part documentary which aired in 1994, providing an insightful and intriguing glimpse into the life and work of the ingenious stand-up comedian Bill Hicks. Directed and produced by Chris Bould, the film features pieces of previously unseen footage, rare interviews, as well as other observations drawn from those who worked closely with Hicks during his career. This film, which falls neatly into the documentary genre, indeed brings to the fore elements of comedy and drama in line with Hicks's unique style and persona. The audience is therefore treated not only to an overview of Hicks's career, but also a deeper look at his perspectives, beliefs, and the distinctive comedic techniques and narratives for which he was acclaimed and continues to be remembered.

The film is divided into two parts; the first titled 'It's Just a Ride' and the second 'Revelations'. 'It's Just a Ride' serves as an entertaining and enlightening feature-length profile of the larger-than-life comedic figure. It reminds us of Hicks’s often insightful socio-political commentary, his penchant for pushing boundaries, and his reputation for being boisterously candid, regardless of the sensitivity of the topics he tackled.

Woven into this are interviews with his parents, friends, and fellow comedians, adding further depth to our understanding of Bill as a comedian and as a person. The interviews with his parents, in particular, present a tender look at his upbringing and personal life, while those with his peers — including Richard Belzer, Eric Bogosian, and Kevin Booth among others — provide valuable context about Hicks's influence and standing in the comedy scene.

The second part, 'Revelations,' offers a complete concert by Hicks at London’s Dominion Theatre. The concert, delivered in Hicks's boisterously daring and intellectual style, showcases his gripping, passionate, and thought-provoking commentary on a range of topics - from politics to consumerism, to the darker aspects of modern society and its hypocrisies. It is indeed a revelation, not just of Hicks's talent for stand-up, but also his ability to stir thoughts and perceptions in his audience.

Hicks’s distinctive style and unique humor come forth strongly in this film. His ability to project compelling points of view, without sparing any topic, all while ensuring laughs from his audience, sets him apart and places him among the legends of humor. The film further serves to highlight Hicks's comic timing and knack for story-telling – something that made his take on even the grimmest of socio-political reality, remarkably engaging.

One other important aspect of Totally Bill Hicks is its seamless blending of the tragic and the comic. There’s a sense of melancholic undertones to the entire film, one that reflects the early demise of Hicks and the height of his career cut short. Yet, it manages to navigate this sadness without undermining the dominant comedic force that was Bill Hicks.

The film may also be seen as educational and formative for aspiring comedians or comedy enthusiasts, providing not just entertainment, but also insights into the art of stand-up and comedic commentary. Thus, it manages to serve as a fitting tribute to the man, while also contributing to the broader discourse on sociopolitical commentary within comedy.

Totally Bill Hicks doesn’t just ensure a high laugh quotient, but also presents an opportunity to engage with challenging ideas and perspectives. It creatively pays homage to a legendary comedian's life and his unique, irreverent approach to humor that continues to influence the genre today. All said and done, it's a must-watch for fans of Bill Hicks and stand-up comedy.