THE PLOT THUS FAR
Two discs containing four films featuring the comic Richard Lewis. It’s the definitive Lewis set, containing his HBO special Magical Misery Tour, NBC special Diary of a Young Comic, the theatrical feature Drunks and a brand new documentary House of a Lifetime, plus all-new bonus features and introductions!
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“Bundle of Nerves” is quite an interesting Richard Lewis compilation. Starting with the Lorne Michaels produced 1979 special and leading up to his new documentary, Lewis shows how much can happen in 35 years. What really impressed me was the release of Drunks. I’ve heard of the film over the years, but I never had the chance to let it sink. Lewis was kinda doing the whole Louis C.K. schtick about 15 years before Louis turned it into a thing. Sure, Lewis was a little more alpha about it, but it worked.
Watching an anthology approach to a fan appreciated comedian is refreshing. Especially, as we get to watch them rise up and down through addiction to develop into a truly stunning personality. Whether it’s Shout Factory’s latest comedy compilations or this stunning VSC release, I have to say that I’m impressed by what we receive here. While I know that comedy nerds are a dying and select bunch, this is the kind of material that should form the building blocks of your education. As a kid growing up with these specials on constant blast via cable, it’s something else to have them collected here. I truly feel lucky for the experience.
The DVD comes with introductions and commentaries as the special features. The standard definition transfer is crisp enough. I’m guessing that it beats your parents’ old VHS copies of the stand-up specials. The Dolby track works for the soundstage that it needs. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to fans.
RELEASE DATE: 09/02/2014