If you want an objective appraisal of “American: The Bill Hicks Story,” I’m not your man, and “American” is not your Bill Hicks documentary: It was put together by friends and family, who provide all the narration; there are no testimonials from well-known stand-up comedians, say, regarding his impact on the scene. I enjoyed the film, but I’m a big fan: Whenever I’m watching standup comedy and not enjoying myself, I think about how much I miss Richard Pryor and Bill Hicks.
Don’t be fooled by the presence of familiar faces – “Super” is a pretty disturbing little film, a scuzzy-looking, scuzzy-minded “Taxi Driver” update with some “Bad Lieutenant” religiosity thrown in for extra upset. Funny at times, but never a comedy, just marketed as one. Great career move for Ellen Page: Her fans, and people who can’t stand her, will equally appreciate her work here.
Every performance and small detail in “Win Win” feels so natural, it somehow, conversely, makes the big coincidence that drives the plot pretty easy to swallow. However, it does make it difficult to say much about the film without the listener jumping ahead of you and making the whole thing sound pat: “So, let me guess, he winds up doing the right thing, right?” Go fuck yourself, listener. Did I mention it’s in 3D?
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