Cast
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Jerry Stiller
as Self
Jason Alexander
as Self - Roastmaster
Anne Meara
as Self
Ben Stiller
as Self
Kevin James
as Self
Bea Arthur
as Self
Florence Henderson
as Self
Susie Essman
as Self
Jimmy Kimmel
as Self
Freddie Roman
as Self - Dean
Sandra Bernhard
as Self
Patton Oswalt
as Self
Ruth Westheimer
as Self
Janeane Garofalo
as Self
Chris Noth
as Self
Crew
Director
- Paul Miller
Producer
- Jeff Ross
- Jean Pierre Trebot
- Ken Greengrass
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Documentary/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Paul Miller brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 48 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 59 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cristela Alonzo: Middle Classy, which focuses more on action than character development, The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Hate by Dani Rovira and Lewis Black: Old Yeller - Live at the Borgata explore similar territory, The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 27, 1999
- Runtime: 48m
