The King of Comedy

The King of Comedy

Year: 1983

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Martin Scorsese

DramaThrillerComedyCrime

Driven by a desperate longing for recognition, Rupert Pupkin, a struggling comic, becomes dangerously obsessed with Jerry Langford, a hugely popular late-night talk show host. Unable to cope with repeated rejections, Rupert’s fantasies spiral into a disturbing reality when he takes drastic measures, kidnapping Langford and demanding a place on his show in exchange for his release. The situation escalates into a tense and unsettling confrontation.

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Timeline & Setting – The King of Comedy (1983)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The King of Comedy (1983). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The specific time period isn't defined, but the film captures a moment in a contemporary setting where the world of entertainment is dominated by television. It reflects the 1980s culture of celebrity obsession and the pursuit of fame through unconventional means, embodying a societal landscape where desperation and ambition intertwine.

Location

Manhattan, Langford's country home

The movie takes place in the bustling streets of Manhattan, known for its vibrant entertainment scene and cultural diversity. It's the backdrop where dreams are chased and fame is sought after. Additionally, Langford's secluded country home represents a contrast to the city, a place of refuge that becomes a site of desperation and impulsive decisions.

🏙️ City 🌳 Countryside

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Main Characters – The King of Comedy (1983)

Meet the key characters of The King of Comedy (1983), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Rupert Pupkin (Robert De Niro)

Rupert Pupkin is a delusional and ambitious wannabe comedian whose relentless pursuit of fame drives the narrative. His character oscillates between charm and desperation, revealing a vulnerability masked by bravado. Rupert's determination to be someone of significance illustrates both the humor and tragedy inherent in his quest.

🎭 Comedy 🌟 Celebrity 💤 Dreamer

Jerry Langford (Jerry Lewis)

Jerry Langford is a successful comedian and talk-show host who becomes the target of Rupert's obsession. He represents the pinnacle of success that Rupert aspires to, showcasing both the allure and burdens of fame. Langford’s reactions to Rupert’s antics highlight the pressures faced by public figures in the entertainment industry.

🎤 Icon 📺 Host 🌟 Fame

Cathy Long (Sandra Bernhard)

Cathy Long is a member of Jerry's team who becomes increasingly frustrated with Rupert's intrusions. She embodies the voice of reason amidst Rupert's chaos and showcases the challenges faced by those working in the entertainment industry. Cathy's interactions reflect the absurdity of the situation and her own complex motivations.

👩‍💼 Professional 🙅‍♀️ Skeptic 🌪️ Chaos

Masha (Sandra Bernhard)

Masha is a fellow obsessive fan who supports Rupert's erratic plans. Her character offers a glimpse into the extreme behaviors that fandom can inspire, showcasing her own desperate desire for connection with Langford. Masha's actions ultimately add layers to the theme of obsession and the insanity that comes with it.

🔫 Fanatic 🤔 Quirky 🎭 Comedy

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Major Themes – The King of Comedy (1983)

Explore the central themes of The King of Comedy (1983), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎤 Ambition

Ambition is a driving force in Rupert's life, pushing him to pursue his dreams relentlessly. His determination illustrates the lengths some individuals will go to achieve greatness, even through morally dubious actions. This theme intertwines with the struggles of the underdog, highlighting both the comedic and tragic elements of seeking validation.

🕵️‍♂️ Obsession

Rupert's fixation on Jerry Langford exemplifies the theme of obsession, as he believes that his big break is just within reach. This relentless pursuit leads him to drastic choices, including kidnapping, showcasing the darker side of ambition. The film invites viewers to reflect on the fine line between admiration and unhealthy fixation.

💔 Isolation

Despite being surrounded by others, Rupert experiences profound isolation, stemming from his inability to connect genuinely with people. His daydreams highlight a yearning for acceptance and camaraderie that contrasts sharply with his reality. This theme amplifies the loneliness felt by those who chase fame at the expense of true relationships.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:12

Unlock the Full Story of The King of Comedy

Don't stop at just watching — explore The King of Comedy in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The King of Comedy is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The King of Comedy Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The King of Comedy, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The King of Comedy Summary

The King of Comedy Timeline

Track the full timeline of The King of Comedy with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The King of Comedy Timeline

The King of Comedy Spoiler-Free Summary

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The King of Comedy Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The King of Comedy

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More About The King of Comedy

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