Trevor Noah: You Laugh But It's True (2011)

Simply A Masterpiece

Absolutely brilliant

The performances transcend the film's tropes, grounding it in characters that feel more complete than this subgenre often produces.

There is, somehow, an interesting story here, as well as some good acting. There are also some good scenes

Amazing background to the comic genius Trevor Noah. The personal and political are both part of his comedy and this film shows him calmly confronting situations that would petrify most of us. We get to meet his South African grandmother and mother who are both truly admirable people. During the making of the doco his mother was actually the victim of a serious crime and it's frightening what the outcome could have been. This is one of the serious moments in the film that allows us to see where Noah came from and truly opened my eyes to South African society. That's why this is more than just a record of "putting-on-a-show." Watch out for his impression of Nelson Mandela at his 91st birthday party, drunk! Had me in stitches.

I watched this on Netflix just now. I decided to watch it because it sounded interesting. Well, it certainly delivers! I have a couple of acquaintances in South Africa, so I suppose I'm slightly less ignorant... but the two people I know there are white, so I think that certainly skews the point of view. I found this insightful, funny, touching... just really great. I am ashamed to admit, I didn't remember he was the one to take over the Daily Show until about 10 minutes before this was finished. To explain, I can't afford cable, and only catch clips on YouTube for at least the past 2 years. I hope to be in a better situation soon when I can have cable, because I want to watch him in action!! At any rate, this review is specifically for this documentary, which I think was very well done. Showing many perspectives, personal life... just very well done.

I had high expectations for this film and was not disappointed. It's a compelling and insightful look at the evolution of the comedy scene in South Africa. Trevor Noah is a talented comedian with an intriguing life story and there were poignant moments in the film that took me by surprise.I thought the subtle uses of humor and irony throughout the documentary were brilliant. On the technical side, I enjoyed the dynamic cinematography and exceptional soundtrack. My husband, who isn't always a fan of documentaries, also greatly enjoyed the film. We both thought it was the perfect length as well and it didn't drag on as some documentaries tend to do.