Punching Henry Poster

Punching Henry 2017

★ 5.945 votes98 min📅 2017-02-24

"Comedy isn't funny."

In *Punching Henry (2017)*, the sharp-tongued comedian Henry Phillips is swept up in a Hollywood whirlwind when a slick TV producer lures him to Los Angeles with a tantalizing pitch: turn his string of professional and personal misfortunes into a hit comedy series.

Director: Gregori Viens

Cast

Sarah Silverman
Sarah Silverman
Sharon Levine
Henry Phillips
Henry Phillips
Henry Phillips
J.K. Simmons
J.K. Simmons
Jay Warren
Mike Judge
Mike Judge
Ed
Michaela Watkins
Michaela Watkins
Mara
Tig Notaro
Tig Notaro
Jillian
Jim Jefferies
Jim Jefferies
Charlie
Al Madrigal
Al Madrigal
Officer Delgado
Nikki Glaser
Nikki Glaser
Claire the Bartender
Brendon Walsh
Jon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Punching Henry (2017) about?

*Punching Henry* follows struggling comedian Henry Phillips as he's drawn into the Hollywood machine, where his personal failures are repackaged as entertainment. The film asks tough questions about authenticity and ambition as Phillips grapples with whether to embrace his role as a joke or fight back against the industry that wants to exploit him.

Who directed Punching Henry?

Punching Henry was directed by Gregori Viens, who brings a sharp, satirical edge to this dark comedy about survival in the entertainment world.

Who stars in Punching Henry?

The film features Sarah Silverman, Henry Phillips, J.K. Simmons, Mike Judge, and Michaela Watkins as the core ensemble navigating the chaotic world of showbiz.

Is Punching Henry (2017) worth watching?

With its sharp script and standout performances, *Punching Henry* is a must-see for fans of biting comedies. While it holds an unrated status on IMDb, its themes of authenticity and industry satire make it a refreshing and thought-provoking watch for those tired of formulaic humor.

How long is Punching Henry?

Punching Henry runs for 98 minutes, offering a tight, fast-paced narrative packed with sharp dialogue and comedic set pieces.

🎥 Trailer

About Punching Henry (2017) — A Hollywood satire on comedy, failure, and selling out

In *Punching Henry (2017)*, the sharp-tongued comedian Henry Phillips is swept up in a Hollywood whirlwind when a slick TV producer lures him to Los Angeles with a tantalizing pitch: turn his string of professional and personal misfortunes into a hit comedy series. Directed by Gregori Viens, this biting satire dives into the cutthroat world of show business, where a struggling performer must navigate the fine line between selling his soul for laughs or becoming the punchline himself. With a razor-edged script and a cast that includes Sarah Silverman, J.K. Simmons, and Tig Notaro, the film blends cynical humor with poignant moments, capturing the absurdity and frustration of chasing fame in an industry that thrives on failure.

The story unfolds with relentless energy, painting a darkly comic portrait of ambition and compromise. Phillips' journey forces him to confront whether success is worth the cost when authenticity is traded for applause. Viens' direction keeps the tone brisk and irreverent, while the stellar ensemble delivers performances that oscillate between hilarious and heartfelt. If you've ever wondered what happens when a comedian's life becomes the ultimate material, *Punching Henry* delivers a biting, laugh-out-loud exploration of the highs and lows of making it in Hollywood.