Diary of a Young Comic Poster

Diary of a Young Comic 1979

67 min📅 1979-02-03

Step into the neon-lit world of 1970s Los Angeles comedy with *Diary of a Young Comic* (1979), a nostalgic TV movie that captures the raw energy of stand-up's golden era.

Director: Gary Weis

Cast

Richard Lewis
Richard Lewis
Billy Goldstein / Gondola
Dom DeLuise
Dom DeLuise
Himself
George Jessel
George Jessel
Himself
Bill Macy
Bill Macy
Herbert Gondolstein
Stacy Keach
Stacy Keach
Mr. Porzinski
Michael Lerner
Michael Lerner
Billy's agent
Linda Kerridge
Linda Kerridge
Billy's neighbor
Gary Mule Deer
Gary Mule Deer
Himself
Nina van Pallandt
Nina van Pallandt
Herself
Richard Dimitri
Richard Dimitri
Billy's therapist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Diary of a Young Comic* (1979) about?

This 1979 comedy-drama follows Richard Lewis as a fictionalized version of himself—a hungry young New York comic who heads to Los Angeles with dreams of fame, only to confront the harsh realities of the comedy world. The film blends humor with poignant moments, exploring his struggles to find his voice while navigating the city's vibrant—but cutthroat—entertainment scene.

Who directed *Diary of a Young Comic*?

The film was directed by Gary Weis, a filmmaker known for his work in television and comedy, who brings a keen eye for character-driven humor to the project.

Who stars in *Diary of a Young Comic*?

The movie features an ensemble cast led by Richard Lewis, with standout performances from Dom DeLuise, Stacy Keach, George Jessel, and Bill Macy, each adding depth to the L.A. comedy landscape.

Is *Diary of a Young Comic* (1979) worth watching?

For fans of Richard Lewis and 1970s comedy culture, *Diary of a Young Comic* is a delightful time capsule that offers both laughs and insight. While it may not be a household name today, its short runtime and authentic portrayal of a young comic's journey make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

How long is *Diary of a Young Comic*?

The film runs for 67 minutes, packing a punch of humor and heart into its concise runtime.

🎥 Trailer

Diary of a Young Comic (1979): The Rise of a Comic in 70s L.A. — Full Movie Info

Step into the neon-lit world of 1970s Los Angeles comedy with *Diary of a Young Comic* (1979), a nostalgic TV movie that captures the raw energy of stand-up's golden era. Directed by Gary Weis, this fictionalized autobiographical comedy follows Richard Lewis as a sharp-witted New York comic chasing fame in a city that thrives on laughs—and chaos. With a cast that sparkles like a who's-who of L.A. comedy at the time, including Dom DeLuise, Stacy Keach, and George Jessel, the film immerses viewers in the gritty, glamorous underbelly of the comedy scene. Themes of ambition, insecurity, and the relentless pursuit of stardom resonate through its tight 67-minute runtime, offering a time capsule of an era when comedians were both rebels and dreamers.

This isn't just a comedy—it's a backstage pass to the trials and triumphs of a fledgling comic navigating the highs and lows of showbiz. The film's tone blends humor with heart, painting a vivid portrait of a young artist's journey as he tests his material, battles self-doubt, and learns that success often comes with a steep price. Whether you're a fan of Richard Lewis's iconic comedic timing or a lover of 70s-era storytelling, *Diary of a Young Comic* delivers a bite-sized yet memorable look at the making of a comic—and a man.