Digest

This podcast episode features a conversation between Judd Apatow and Bert Kreischer, exploring various aspects of Judd's career in comedy, filmmaking, and beyond. The episode begins with Judd announcing upcoming stand-up comedy shows and then delves into the challenges of writing new stand-up material, particularly as one ages. Judd emphasizes the collaborative nature of his work, highlighting the impact he's had on the careers of actors like Jonah Hill. He discusses the importance of great directors in comedy, using "Superbad" as an example, and emphasizes the value of creating collaborative teams and passion projects. Judd explains the role of a producer in the film industry, focusing on his experience with "Forgetting Sarah Marshall." The conversation then shifts to Judd's love of music and pop culture, his perspective on wealth and material possessions, and his newfound passion for Formula 1 racing. The episode concludes with discussions about fashion, working out, hair removal, the Menendez brothers case, and the rise of "hot girl" culture, all while emphasizing the importance of craft and patience in comedy.

Outlines

00:00:00

Judd Apatow's Stand-Up Comedy Shows and Career Reflections

Judd Apatow announces upcoming stand-up comedy shows and reflects on the challenges of writing new material, the importance of collaboration, and the impact of his work on the careers of other actors.

00:01:53

The Collaborative Nature of Judd Apatow's Work

Judd and Bert Kreischer discuss Judd's filmography, emphasizing the collaborative nature of his work and the impact he's had on the careers of many successful actors.

00:28:09

Judd Apatow's Influence on Jonah Hill

Judd and Bert explore the question of whether Jonah Hill's success as an actor is due to Judd's guidance or if Jonah would have achieved similar success regardless.

00:31:55

The Importance of Great Directors in Comedy

Judd discusses the impact of having a great director like Greg Mottola on the success of "Superbad," arguing that it elevated the performances and the overall quality of the film.

00:33:40

Creating Collaborative Teams and Passion Projects

Judd emphasizes the importance of creating collaborative teams and fostering passion projects, highlighting how his approach led to the success of many of his films.

00:36:32

The Role of a Producer in the Film Industry

Judd explains the role of a producer in the film industry, focusing on his experience with "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and how he helped secure funding, approve the director, and champion the project.

00:41:50

The Influence of Music and Pop Culture on Comedy

Judd and Bert discuss their shared love of Sam Cook and how it influenced their comedic sensibilities, highlighting the impact of music and pop culture on their lives and careers.

00:49:40

The Changing Landscape of Comedy and Entertainment

Judd reflects on the evolution of comedy and entertainment, comparing the pre-internet era of limited access to entertainment to the current era of constant exposure to jokes and content.

00:56:08

Judd Apatow's Perspective on Wealth and Material Possessions

Judd shares his perspective on wealth and material possessions, revealing his own minimalist lifestyle and lack of interest in expensive items.

00:59:11

Judd Apatow's Passion for Formula 1

Judd discusses his recent discovery of Formula 1 racing and how it has become a new passion for him, highlighting the excitement and dedication of the drivers and teams.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the challenges of writing new stand-up material, especially as you get older?

  Judd explains that as you age, your life experiences change, and it can be difficult to find humor in topics like aging and decay. He also notes that it's challenging to incorporate personal changes into your material and maintain a consistent comedic voice.

• How has your work influenced the careers of other actors, like Jonah Hill?

  Judd acknowledges that Jonah Hill is a talented actor who would have likely achieved success regardless, but he believes that his collaborations with Judd provided Jonah with opportunities to showcase his unique comedic talents and helped him develop his acting style.

• What is the role of a producer in the film industry?

  Judd explains that a producer is responsible for securing funding, overseeing the writing process, and approving the director. They also act as champions for the project, advocating for it to studios and ensuring that it gets made.

• What are your thoughts on wealth and material possessions?

  Judd reveals that he doesn't have a lot of interest in expensive items and prefers a minimalist lifestyle. He believes that true fulfillment comes from experiences and relationships rather than material possessions.

• What is it about Formula 1 that has captured your attention?

  Judd explains that he's been drawn to the passion and dedication of the drivers and teams in Formula 1. He appreciates the technical complexity of the sport and the excitement of the races.

• How has the rise of "hot girl" culture impacted the entertainment industry?

  The rise of "hot girl" culture has created new opportunities for individuals to gain fame and influence through social media. However, it has also raised concerns about objectification and the pressure to conform to certain beauty standards.

• What advice would you give to aspiring comedians who are hoping for instant success?

  It's important for aspiring comedians to develop their craft and be patient. Instant success is rare, and it's crucial to focus on honing your skills and building a strong foundation.

Show Notes