As others have said, this is NOT a comedy; unfortunately, it was marketed as such, which is why it wasn't successful in its theatrical release. It is, however, an excellent drama, with Crystal as a comedian who rises to the top, but who is tragically flawed. The life of Crystal's Buddy Young is a conglomeration of aspects of the lives of particular real-life comedians, including Milton Berle, Sid Caesar and Jackie Mason.
I recall having seen this film in the theater and being blown away by David Paymer as Crystal's brother; Paymer later won the Oscar for Supporting Actor. An at-the-time relatively unknown Helen Hunt also does some compelling supporting work in a brief featured role.
One major flaw, as another commentator pointed out, is the weak aging-effect makeup in the last part of the movie. You just have to suspend your disbelief and hang in there til the end.
I recall having seen this film in the theater and being blown away by David Paymer as Crystal's brother; Paymer later won the Oscar for Supporting Actor. An at-the-time relatively unknown Helen Hunt also does some compelling supporting work in a brief featured role.
One major flaw, as another commentator pointed out, is the weak aging-effect makeup in the last part of the movie. You just have to suspend your disbelief and hang in there til the end.