Is It Started As a Joke Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, It Started As a Joke is likely a skip if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 76 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
It Started As a Joke Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2019, It Started As a Joke enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on This documentary chronicles the decade-long run of the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival – including a final farewell show. Under the direction of Julie Smith Clem, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Eugene Mirman, H. Jon Benjamin, Mike Birbiglia. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, It Started As a Joke offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, It Started As a Joke resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, It Started As a Joke is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of It Started As a Joke centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. This documentary chronicles the decade-long run of the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival – including a final farewell show. The film celebrates Eugene’s unique brand of humor and his role in the alternative comedy movement, offers a bittersweet goodbye to an era, and reminds us of the healing properties of comedy – even in the most challenging of life’s circumstances. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2019 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of It Started As a Joke has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a It Started As a Joke sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for It Started As a Joke (2019): with an audience rating of 4.8/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Documentary, Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
It Started As a Joke has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, It Started As a Joke stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Started As a Joke movie hit or flop?
It Started As a Joke is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is It Started As a Joke worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, It Started As a Joke may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is It Started As a Joke?
It Started As a Joke is a Documentary, Comedy movie that This documentary chronicles the decade-long run of the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival – including a final farewell show. The film celebrates Eugene’s u...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is It Started As a Joke movie hit or flop?
It Started As a Joke is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is It Started As a Joke worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, It Started As a Joke may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is It Started As a Joke?
It Started As a Joke is a Documentary, Comedy movie that This documentary chronicles the decade-long run of the Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival – including a final farewell show. The film celebrates Eugene’s u...
Is It Started As a Joke family friendly?
Yes, It Started As a Joke is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Documentary, Comedy genre.
Where can I watch It Started As a Joke?
You can find streaming options and availability for It Started As a Joke on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of It Started As a Joke?
It Started As a Joke features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie It Started As a Joke?
The runtime and duration of It Started As a Joke are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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