A Futile and Stupid Gesture

Synopsis

A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a 2018 comedy-drama film that follows the rise and fall of Doug Kenney, co-founder of the National Lampoon magazine and Caddyshack. The movie delves into Kenney's journey from creating a satirical empire to facing internal conflicts and personal struggles. With a blend of humor and poignant moments, the film explores the complexities of success, friendship, and the price of chasing one's dreams in the tumultuous world of comedy. Will Forte delivers a captivating performance as Doug Kenney, portraying the character's wit, charm, and inner turmoil. A Futile and Stupid Gesture offers a nostalgic glimpse into the pivotal moments in comedy history, celebrating Kenney's impactful yet tragic legacy.

Cast

• 

  Will Forte

  Doug Kenney

• 

  Domhnall Gleeson

  Henry Beard

• 

  Martin Mull

  Modern Doug

• 

  Neil Casey

  Brian McConnachie

• 

  Jon Daly

  Bill Murray

• 

  Nelson Franklin

  P.J. O'Rourke

Reviews

A Futile and Stupid Gesture has received mixed reviews from critics. While some praise the film for its witty humor and heartfelt depiction of Doug Kenney's life, others criticize its pacing and lack of depth. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a rating of 68%, with an average rating of 6.6/10, stating that the movie 'offers an insightful look at the National Lampoon, even if the end result doesn't always do its subject justice'. IMDb rates the film at 6.7/10, acknowledging its strong performances and historical context. Metacritic gives it a score of 55/100, indicating 'mixed or average reviews'. Overall, A Futile and Stupid Gesture is a bittersweet tribute to a comedy pioneer, leaving viewers with a blend of laughter and contemplation.