MasterClass

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  • MasterClass
  • Documentary

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14
14x1
Introduction
Episode overview
Meet Steve. He's one of the most accomplished comedians of all time, an acclaimed writer, actor, and musician. And now, he's your instructor.
14x2
Getting Started in Comedy
Episode overview
No talent? No problem. Steve shares some ways that anyone can jumpstart their comedic journey. He didn't let a lack of talent slow him down and thinks you shouldn't either.
14x3
Gathering Material
Episode overview
Inspiration is all around you if you know where to look. Steve teaches you how to keep your eyes open and reveals some of the most abundant sources of comedic material.
14x4
Finding Your Comedic Voice
Episode overview
Figuring out what you have to say can be one of the most daunting tasks a comedian faces. Steve provides some effective techniques for identifying your own unique voice and channeling it into comedy.
14x5
Developing a Comedic Persona
Episode overview
It's not just what you say, it's how you say it. Steve explains how his own stage persona emerged and teaches you how to cultivate one that will take your material to the next level.
14x6
Jokes and Bits
Episode overview
There are a million ways to get someone to laugh. Steve refutes the myth that you need a punchline to be funny and analyzes a number of joke structures that you can use to keep them in stitches.
14x7
Delivery
Episode overview
The difference is in the delivery. Steve offers techniques for pacing, physicality, and timing to help you hone those jokes you've written for the stage.
14x8
Crafting Your Act
Episode overview
So you've got some jokes - now what? Steve reveals how you can turn your material into a stageworthy act.
14x9
Student Session: Workshopping Nalini's First Stand-Up Act
Episode overview
Steve sits down with a group of young comedians and gives Nalini hands-on guidance in the development of her very first stand up bit.
14x10
Student Session: Workshopping Tim's Act
Episode overview
Steve examines one of Tim's bits and illustrates how he can heighten the comedy, connect with the audience, and streamline his performance.
14x11
Opening and Closing Your Act
Episode overview
A strong opening and closing are the keys to a memorable act. Steve talks about the importance of these moments and shows you how to use them to your advantage.
14x12
Profanity and Morality
Episode overview
Steve discusses the questions that face every comedian when it comes to vulgarity and political correctness.
14x13
Growing as a Performer
Episode overview
Excellence in comedy requires practice just like everything else. Steve examines how to learn from your mistakes, refine your material, and ensure that you are ready to take the next step.
14x14
Nerves, Hecklers, and Bombing
Episode overview
Even Steve Martin has a bad show every now and then. But with his help, you can learn how to avoid common pitfalls, manage your stage fright, and make the most out of bombing.
14x15
A Life in the Arts
Episode overview
Failure, rivalry, bad reviews: being a comedian is hard. Steve teaches you how to roll with the punches and advocates for a life of being in the arts.
14x16
Creating Characters
Episode overview
Steve shares the processes he's used to create some of his most memorable characters and bring them to life on screen, based on his experience acting in over 50 films from Father of the Bride to Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.
14x17
Story Techniques
Episode overview
Steve doesn't let writer's block trip him up, and neither should you. He reveals the storytelling exercises he's employed to write classics like The Jerk and Bowfinger.
14x18
Screenwriting Case Study: Roxanne
Episode overview
Steve discusses his experience writing Roxanne, the inspirations behind some of its funniest scenes, and how he adapted a 19th century play into what became one of his most beloved films.
14x19
Editing
Episode overview
Steve believes that editing is one of a comedian's most powerful tools. In these lessons, he breaks down his own editing processes and illustrates how it can turn something good into something great.
14x20
Editing (cont'd)
Episode overview
With particular emphasis on the life of a written piece once it's in the hands of actors and directors, Steve continues discussing his editing practices. He then puts his critical eye into action to analyze Beth's sketch.
14x21
Writing Case Study: Meteor Shower
Episode overview
Steve uses his play, Meteor Shower, as a teaching tool to explain efficient writing, smart exposition, and practical character development.
14x22
Steve's Comedic Inspirations
Episode overview
Steve became the best by observing the best. Learn about the comedy legends that inspired him to pursue his passion and the impact they had on his craft.
14x23
Steve's Journey
Episode overview
Learn how Steve's love of performing took him from a childhood magic act to selling out arenas. And how he has now, finally, learned to relax.
14x24
Final Thoughts
Episode overview
Steve concludes his class by offering some parting advice and words of inspiration.
14x25
Bonus Case Study: Speeches
Episode overview
Featuring exclusive footage of a tribute to Tom Hanks at the Museum of Modern Art, Steve dissects some of his favorite speaking engagements and shares his process for delivering comedy gold in speeches.

Characters