A Futile and Stupid Gesture Poster

A Futile and Stupid Gesture 2018

★ 6.5359 votes101 min📅 2018-01-24

"Being the King of Comedy is no joke."

Step into the chaotic, hilarious world of early comedy's most legendary underdogs with *A Futile and Stupid Gesture* (2018), David Wain's witty love letter to the rebellious spirit of 1970s humor.

Director: David Wain

Cast

Will Forte
Will Forte
Doug Kenney
Domhnall Gleeson
Domhnall Gleeson
Henry Beard
Martin Mull
Martin Mull
Modern Doug
Neil Casey
Neil Casey
Brian McConnachie
Jon Daly
Jon Daly
Bill Murray
Nelson Franklin
Nelson Franklin
P.J. O'Rourke
John Gemberling
John Gemberling
John Belushi
Rick Glassman
Rick Glassman
Harold Ramis
Seth Green
Seth Green
Christopher Guest
Harry Groener
Harry Groener
Harry Kenney

Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018) about?

*A Futile and Stupid Gesture* dives into the wild rise of Doug Kenney, a co-founder of *National Lampoon* who helped shape 1970s comedy culture. The film blends humor, drama, and real-life events to tell the story of an eccentric genius whose work left a lasting mark on pop culture.

Who directed A Futile and Stupid Gesture?

David Wain, known for his quirky and comedic directing style, helmed *A Futile and Stupid Gesture*. Wain's background in laugh-out-loud humor shines through in this tribute to comedy's rebellious golden age.

Who stars in A Futile and Stupid Gesture?

The film features a standout cast led by Will Forte as Doug Kenney, alongside Domhnall Gleeson, Martin Mull, Neil Casey, and Jon Daly, each bringing their unique energy to the story.

Is A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018) worth watching?

If you love comedy history or sharp satire, this film is a must-see. While it's not a blockbuster, its blend of humor and drama offers a fresh, nostalgic take on the legends of *National Lampoon*. It's a hidden gem for fans of the genre.

How long is A Futile and Stupid Gesture?

The runtime is 101 minutes, or just under two hours—perfect for a binge-worthy dive into comedy's most iconic era.

🎥 Trailer

About A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018) — The Untold Story Behind the National Lampoon Empire

Step into the chaotic, hilarious world of early comedy's most legendary underdogs with *A Futile and Stupid Gesture* (2018), David Wain's witty love letter to the rebellious spirit of 1970s humor. The film follows Doug Kenney, a visionary who helped shape *National Lampoon* into a cultural juggernaut, blending sharp satire with the raw energy of a generation that redefined laughter itself. With a dynamic blend of comedy and drama, Wain crafts a tone that's equal parts irreverent and nostalgic, capturing the highs and lows of an era when comedy wasn't just entertainment—it was revolution. Will Forte shines as Kenney, backed by a powerhouse cast including Domhnall Gleeson and Martin Mull, delivering a story that's as insightful as it is entertaining.

Against the backdrop of a shifting pop-culture landscape, *A Futile and Stupid Gesture* explores ambition, camaraderie, and the fine line between genius and madness. The film balances heartfelt moments with laugh-out-loud antics, embodying the very spirit of the comedy empire Kenney helped build. Whether you're a fan of classic humor or curious about the untold stories behind iconic magazines, this movie offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the chaos that made comedy history.