"Fourth of July" Review: A Louis CK and Joe List Masterpiece

One-Year Anniversary Review of "Fourth of July

It's the one-year anniversary of "Fourth of July", a film that splendidly weaves the elements of comedy and drama to bring to life the story of Jeff, a jazz pianist and recovering alcoholic in New York City. Jeff's annual family vacation over the Fourth of July becomes the backdrop for an exploration of sobriety, personal growth, and family dynamics, painted with a realistic brush that many will find familiar and relatable.

This film is an engaging concoction of laughter, drama, and poignant moments that resonates long after the final credits roll. I thoroughly enjoyed "Fourth of July" and highly recommend watching it over the upcoming Fourth of July holiday weekend.

A Heartfelt Depiction of Mental Health and Anxiety

"Fourth of July" stands out for its candid portrayal of mental health issues. The characters in the movie wrestle with a range of struggles, including anxiety, addiction, grief, and more, adding a level of humanizing depth to the narrative.

Jeff's battle with anxiety is a recurring theme in the film, depicted ingeniously through visual and audio cues. Whenever Jeff's anxiety spikes, the screen takes on a green tint, and the background fills with the intense, pulsating beats of drums and horns, symbolizing his racing thoughts. It's a unique and relatable visualization of anxiety, one that pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.

Relatable and Realistic Family Dynamics

One of the most striking aspects of "Fourth of July" is its portrayal of family dynamics. The relationships between Jeff and his family members are not sugar-coated or idealized; they are presented in their raw, often tumultuous reality. This adds a layer of authenticity to the film that makes it profoundly relatable to viewers.

The family gatherings are fraught with tension, laughter, misunderstandings, and moments of tenderness - the kinds of ups and downs that characterize real-life familial interactions. Each family member is flawed and dealing with their own struggles, making their interactions all the more realistic. This blend of conflict and camaraderie is one of the film's strengths, making it a reflection of real-life families and their often complicated dynamics.

This accurate portrayal of family relationships is not just an aspect of the plot, it forms the backbone of the narrative. The conflicts and resolutions within the family offer viewers a mirror, often reflecting their own experiences, feelings, and relationships. It's an element of the film that adds depth and dimension, grounding the narrative in a reality that is familiar to many of us. This, paired with the standout performances of the ensemble cast, makes "Fourth of July" a film that truly resonates.

A Stellar Cast of Stand-Up Comics and Actors

"Fourth of July" boasts a cast teeming with stand-up comedians, a testament to their acting prowess outside the confines of comedy clubs. The actors excel in their roles, bringing their characters to life with a raw, emotive performance that transcends the traditional comedy trope.

Notably, Bobby Kelly stands out with his portrayal of Jeff's new sponsee, "Bobby." His performance brings a depth and vulnerability to the character that's truly remarkable. In addition, Jeff's real-life wife plays his on-screen partner, "Beth," adding another layer of authenticity to the narrative.

While "Fourth of July" boasts a line-up of exceptional stand-up comedians, the film wouldn't have the same level of depth and realism without the impressive work of the non-comic actors. Together, they create a remarkable ensemble that explores the complexities of family dynamics, personal struggles, and the often unspoken trials of mental health.

Paula Plum delivers an outstanding portrayal of Jeff's mother, a formidable matriarch who reigns over the family with an iron fist. Her powerful performance is as captivating as it is unsettling, showcasing the struggles of a woman firmly entrenched in her ways and unwilling to soften her stance even in the face of her son's struggle. This inflexibility is not uncommon in many households, making it a relatable aspect of the narrative.

In parallel, Robert Walsh gives a poignant performance as Jeff's father, a man grappling with his own demons while being stuck in the crossfire of his family's trials. His portrayal of a father, who is emotionally constrained and struggling to navigate his family's turbulence, is both evocative and thought-provoking. His performance serves as a stark reminder of the realities many families face when dealing with addiction and recovery.

The ensemble cast all contribute to the narrative's depth and authenticity. Each actor brings their character to life in their unique way, contributing to the rich tapestry of personalities and relationships that make "Fourth of July" such a compelling watch.

Together, the stand-up comedians and non-comic actors create a beautifully balanced narrative that oscillates between moments of levity and profound emotion. Their performances are key to making "Fourth of July" a memorable cinematic experience that will resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.

How to Watch "Fourth of July"

Currently, "Fourth of July" is exclusively available on Louis CK's website. Although this might seem a bit unconventional in the age of streaming platforms, watching it is quite simple. You can view the movie directly on your device once you've purchased and downloaded it. If you wish to enjoy the film on your TV, there are a few extra steps.

On Mobile Devices

1. Download a streaming app compatible with your device.
2. Add the movie file to the app.
3. Use the casting option on the app to stream the film on your TV.

On PC

1. Download and install a streaming app such as Plex or VLC media player.
2. Add the downloaded movie file to the app.
3. Stream it on your TV using the casting option on the app.

On Apple Devices

1. Open the downloaded movie file.
2. Click on the 'AirPlay' button (which looks like a TV) located in the bottom right corner of the video player.
3. Select your Apple TV from the list of available devices.

Final Thoughts

As "Fourth of July" celebrates its one-year anniversary, it continues to resonate with viewers worldwide. It's more than a comedy-drama; it's an authentic portrayal of individuals wrestling with their inner demons, amplified by the wit and charm of stand-up comedians. I strongly recommend catching this unique cinematic journey over the upcoming holiday weekend.

Fourth of July Trailer

Videos & Podcasts

Fourth of July - Live Q&A w/Joe List

Joe List conducts a Q&A session after a Fourth of July screening of his film, discussing various aspects of the production, casting, and writing process. He shares his personal experiences, explaining that the film was somewhat autobiographical and how he balanced comedy with drama based on his own life. Despite mixed reviews, the audience appears to have enjoyed the film, leading to a lively discussion and enthusiastic responses.

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The Joe Rogan Experience: Louis CK & Joe List

On the JRE podcast, Louis CK and Joe List delve into their experiences of co-writing and releasing the film "Fourth of July," using personal life experiences to craft the story. They talk about the advantages of distributing their movie via Louis CK's website for direct audience feedback, while noting the pitfalls of censorship and control issues on streaming platforms. The conversation further covers the potential limitations of a subscription model and the influence of social media algorithms, underscoring the importance of a more diverse, grounded narrative in their film.

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Flagrant with Andrew Schulz

In their appearance on 'Flagrant' with Andrew Schulz, Joe List and Louis CK discuss their new movie, 'Fourth of July'. They delve into the film's blend of comedy and drama, which is heavily based on real-life experiences. The interview provides a compelling insight into the movie's creation and the comedic duo's foray into more dramatic storytelling.

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Joe List & Louis CK Promoting Fourth of July

Joe List and Louis CK explore the making and reception of their new film, discussing differences in audience reactions across cities and the personal anecdotes they transformed into cinematic content. They express their appreciation for the freedom of producing content without corporate interference, despite the challenges presented by algorithm-driven platforms. The possibility of evolving Louis CK's direct-to-fan website into a subscription model was also considered, along with the importance of diverse, non-formulaic storytelling.

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