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"Don't Think Twice" Shines A Spotlight On The World Of Improv Comedy

DETROIT (WWJ) - A new movie that's just arrived in theaters shines a spotlight on the world of improv comedy. "Don't Think Twice" is the second feature film written and directed by comedian Mike Birbiglia, who also co-stars.

"Improv is like everyone's equal on stage, but off stage, this person gets a break; this person doesn't get a break," Birbiglia said.

Just like in real life, "Don't Think Twice" is a movie about friendships and how friends and family members handle situations when things don't necessarily go according to plan.

"You know, it gets ugly, and this movie gets a little bit ugly. But, yeah, it's part of it. And I think it's true of all professions. I think it's probably true in journalism; I think it's true on sports teams, and groups of friends in college. You know, sometimes someone gets the thing that you want."

Yes, this movie does tackle tough issues and tough situations. What do you do, for example, if your parents have one idea of what they see for your life and career, but your ideas are completely different? How do you handle it if one of your closest colleagues or best friends gets what they've always dreamed of, while you're still struggling to make your dreams come true? This movie tackles those questions.

While "Don't Think Twice" gets off to a sluggish start, wanting to see what happens next is what kept me tuned in. Metro Detroit native Keegan-Michael Key, one half of the Comedy Central show "Key & Peele," also plays a prominent role in the film, so that was also an incentive.

Terri_Mike Birbiglia
Comedian Mike Birbiglia, left, poses next to a poster for "Don't Think Twice," following his interview with WWJ's Terri Lee, right.

See you at the movies!

Be sure to tune in to WWJ Newsradio 950 every Friday for my weekly look at the movies with Midday Anchor Jackie Paige.

Follow Terri on Twitter @TerriJLee

Member:
Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA)
Detroit Film Critics Society (DFCS)
African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA)
Digital Arts, Film & Television (DAFT)

 

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