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Published -
- September 16, 2019
- 8:00 pm
An insult comic gets shy when a specific audience member demands to be roasted.
Key & Peele showcases the fearless wit of stars Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele as the duo takes on everything from “Gremlins 2” to systemic racism. With an array of sketches as wide-reaching as they are cringingly accurate, the pair has created a bevy of classic characters, including Wendell, the players of the East/West Bowl and President Obama’s Anger Translator.
Why is it important for comedians to know their audience in order to be successful?
An Insult Comic Meets His Match – Key & Peele
In the world of stand-up comedy, there are few approaches as risky as that of the insult comic. Relying heavily on audience feedback and a quick wit, insult comics use verbal jabs to tear down their targets, often relying on controversial commentary and crude jokes to get the laughs rolling. However, in a skit from the television series Key & Peele, an insult comic finds himself facing an unexpectedly formidable opponent.
The skit, entitled Insult Comic, features Jordan Peele as an up-and-coming insult comic, fresh off a string of successful shows. With an arrogant swagger, Peele’s character takes to the stage, ready to take on any and all comedic challengers. However, after several minutes of landing weak insults on audience members, he is approached by Keegan-Michael Key, who portraying the character of the “Bad Ass Motherf****r” (BAMF) in a cowboy hat.
What follows is a hilarious exchange of insults between the two comedians, with Key repeatedly outdoing Peele’s character with each comeback. As Peele’s frustration grows, Key’s BAMF character manages to turn the insults back onto Peele himself, leading to a riotous confrontation.
Aside from being incredibly funny, Insult Comic is a brilliant commentary on the art of comedy and the pitfalls of relying on controversial material to succeed. By pitting an arrogant insult comic against a character who is essentially his inverse, Key & Peele highlights the stark difference between a comedian who relies on cheap laughs and a comedian who is truly funny because of their intelligence and wit.
Furthermore, the skit drives home the importance of knowing your audience and what they will find funny. While Peele’s character initially attempts to stick to his formula for success – insulting anyone who crosses his path – his lack of understanding of the crowd leaves him open to ridicule. Key’s character, on the other hand, exhibits an understanding of what the crowd wants and uses his quick wit to deliver insults that are genuinely hilarious and audience-appropriate.
In conclusion, Insult Comic is a hilarious and well-crafted skit that speaks to the art of comedy and the importance of truly understanding one’s audience. With its brilliant writing and impeccable delivery from both Key and Peele, the skit serves as a textbook example of how to blend satire and social commentary with humor to create something truly memorable.
