🎬 The Premise
Released in 1980, Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on
Steve Martin's second NBC special was made up entirely of sketches.
Under the direction of Joseph Cates, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
🎭 Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Steve Martin.
While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
🎥 Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty 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, Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty resonates with current
cultural themes in the Comedy 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 early 2026, Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty is available for streaming on Shout! Factory Amazon Channel.
For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape.
Steve Martin's second NBC special was made up entirely of sketches. Highlights include: Marty Robbins' "El Paso" with monkeys; "The Death Of Socrates"; and "Bizarre Oddities Of The World."
The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1980 cinema will find fairly predictable.
💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty 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 Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
📝 Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Steve Martin: Comedy Is Not Pretty (1980): with an audience rating of 6.5/10, the reception has been generally positive.
It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, TV Movie, Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.