Downey Wrote That

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Brent H Jim Downey is the type of wordsmith whose work managed to transcend the boundaries of Saturday Night Live, where the bulk of his career was spent, in order to become a mainstay of popular culture. If this documentary only featured former SNL cast members and writers like Adam Sandler, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, and Conan O'Brien talking about Downey's process and influence, it would still be great. However, Director Brent Hodge spends the majority of the film allowing Downey to explain his approach to writing in a way that allows him to take something ordinary and mundane, like giving exact change at a bank, and somehow transform that concept into a hilarious sketch. Downey is responsible for some of the most iconic sketches in SNL history, but I'm glad this film takes the time to recognize his two-year run as head writer for The Late Show with David Letterman.  His influence in the early years of that show helped set the tone for what it would become. The true genius of Jim Downey is best summed up by David Spade late into the film.  After pitching Downey on an idea for a sketch, Spade waited patiently for feedback on how to proceed, only for Jim to turn to David and say, "I can't tell you exactly why that sketch won't work, I just know it won't."  If that type of assessment came from someone without Downey's massive pedigree in comedy, those words might be seen as arrogant and harsh; however, that wasn't his intent. Jim Downey's unique perspective has allowed him to tap into the source of what makes an idea just good or truly great. Seeing Jim explain his method while friends and colleagues weigh in with their own viewpoint on his talent made this an engaging watch. Seeing Jim explain his method while friends and colleagues weigh in with their own viewpoint on his talent made this an engaging watch. If you come into this documentary already familiar with Downey's contributions to television and film, you'll find yourself appreciating him even more.  If you're not familiar with his work, this film is an excellent introduction to a man who has helped shape the comedic landscape for 50 years. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 11/13/25 Full Review Kevin L Quality doc on the work of the greatest writer ever for SNL, and one of America's finest, most innovative comic writers ever. Hits the highlights well but doesn't go overboard w/ idol worship. 3.6 stars Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 11/13/25 Full Review razvan p degenerate unfortunately. shaped my and many others lives Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 11/09/25 Full Review stephen b I don't know why this was cut down to only hour. There was so much content here to expand on. You get snippets of his greatness without any meaningful exploration. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 11/02/25 Full Review Read all reviews

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