When Stand Up Stood Out (2003)

A vibrant exploration of a pivotal moment in comedy history, "When Stand Up Stood Out" takes us back to the late 70s and early 80s, during a time known as the 'Boston Gold Rush'. This was not a mere coincidence, but a seismic shift in the world of stand-up comedy, a flash-point that ignited an unprecedented national stand-up explosion. This era was marked by a surge of groundbreaking comics, including the likes of Dennis Leary, Steven Wright, and Colin Quinn. These performers, each armed with a unique blend of originality, intense passion, and a dash of desperation, emerged from Boston's gritty scene, offering audiences a fresh and audacious take on social and political commentary. The documentary unravels the journey of these comics through a rich array of candid interviews, archival news reports, and rare bootleg footage, providing an unfiltered and uproariously funny perspective on their struggle, emergence, and current standing in the comedy world. "When Stand Up Stood Out" is not just a reflection on a critical period in stand-up comedy, but a hilarious and intimate portrait of the comedians who dared to push boundaries and redefine the art form, forever leaving their mark on the national scene.

When Stand Up Stood Out is a comedy movie featuring Bobcat Goldthwait and directed by Fran Solomita.

When Stand Up Stood Out is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Peacock, Peacock Premium, Pluto TV, Shout! Factory TV and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy When Stand Up Stood Out on Amazon Video.