If you are a fan of his impersonations then you will appreciate this movie. It's funny but full of clichés.
21 Reviews
Basically a Jay Pharoah comedy show
MissFunkyH30 July 2020
Pharoah's Tomb
southdavid26 October 2020
The Sky Movies alphabetical lists gods again chose for me this weekend, this time decreeing that I should watch "2 Minutes of Fame", a film from only a few months ago that was (I'd assume) denied a wider release by the Covid and snapped up by Sky Movies in search of content. Whilst certain performances in the film are decent, overall, it's swamped by a boring and indecisive story.
Deandre (Jay Pharoah) is a supermarket employee struggling to provide for his family, but whose passions lie in making Youtube videos of his comedy stylings, particularly him taking shots at sell out comedian Marques (Katt Williams). When his videos get some traction, he's invited to L.A to participate in a Stand-up competition but this exposure results in Marques seeing an opportunity for revenge.
I liked Jay Pharoah in this, Deandre is a likable character (despite the fact he's prepared to cheat on his girlfriend) and his standup and impressions are really good. I also liked Andy Allo, who was in "Upload" earlier this year and Keke Palmer who I eventually realised I recognised from "Scream Queens". Both their roles have an element of Cliché about them, but again they manage to remain likable. I have to be honest and say that I didn't know who Katt Williams was, prior to looking up the film online, so subsequently understanding that there's probably some close-to-home elements in his character does add another level.
The trouble with the film is that it flirts with having a plot, without ever really committing to one. Deandre isn't a wild success on the competition, the stumbling block that befalls him in the final is overcome within minutes, he doesn't get to fire back at Marques after he embarrasses him during a show, he doesn't fully cheat on his family or struggle that much to win them back. It's not a story of redemption, or betrayal, or cream rising to the top - it's not a story at all, it's just a few days in Deandre's life - and whilst it made me laugh a couple of times, it never made me care.
Deandre (Jay Pharoah) is a supermarket employee struggling to provide for his family, but whose passions lie in making Youtube videos of his comedy stylings, particularly him taking shots at sell out comedian Marques (Katt Williams). When his videos get some traction, he's invited to L.A to participate in a Stand-up competition but this exposure results in Marques seeing an opportunity for revenge.
I liked Jay Pharoah in this, Deandre is a likable character (despite the fact he's prepared to cheat on his girlfriend) and his standup and impressions are really good. I also liked Andy Allo, who was in "Upload" earlier this year and Keke Palmer who I eventually realised I recognised from "Scream Queens". Both their roles have an element of Cliché about them, but again they manage to remain likable. I have to be honest and say that I didn't know who Katt Williams was, prior to looking up the film online, so subsequently understanding that there's probably some close-to-home elements in his character does add another level.
The trouble with the film is that it flirts with having a plot, without ever really committing to one. Deandre isn't a wild success on the competition, the stumbling block that befalls him in the final is overcome within minutes, he doesn't get to fire back at Marques after he embarrasses him during a show, he doesn't fully cheat on his family or struggle that much to win them back. It's not a story of redemption, or betrayal, or cream rising to the top - it's not a story at all, it's just a few days in Deandre's life - and whilst it made me laugh a couple of times, it never made me care.
I Could Have Been Worse
greenekrystal-502548 September 2020
Let me start off by saying I love Jay Pharoah and Kat Williams, but this film fell flat as a pancake. I really was hoping that it would be a doubled-over, side hurting, laughing out loud, crying tears comedy. But it was such a let down because given the cast my expectations were set high. I just feel as though this film was made just so we could see Sinbad, George Wallace, Lunell all in one film.
Being from Birmingham, AL myself I have to admit I was a bit insulted and confused. It just felt like it was only where he (Jay Pharoah) was from for the purpose of being a punchline. But on the contrary Birmingham is where many black comics get their start i.e. Ricky Smiley, Roy Wood Jr. to name a couple. I really like Jay Pharoah but I am past his impressions at this point. They're good but not as funny anymore. All in all this was a mediocre film at best and I wish they (all the comics) could have been seen in a better movie.
Unfunny and basic.
SnobReviews24 June 2020
"2 Minutes Of Fame" is just as unfunny as most wannabe stand-up comic vloggers and it's a damn shame.
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In this comedy, an up-and-coming stand-up comic moves to LA to pursue a film career, after videos of his act make him an online sensation.
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I love Jay Pharoah but, "2 Minutes Of Fame" was almost hard to watch. It's a film that could've raised a lot of questions in the comedy world but, the writers decided to take the easy, "Hollywood" way out and have a happy ending. The premise is alright but the outcome is basic and overused. Also, is it just me or did it seem like Katt Williams was bored as hell in this role? A shame to have used two funny guys in this unfunny flick.
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Something to put on, was good
fiction197229 July 2020
Stumbled upon this and recognized all the big names in it- I thought it was good/ something to watch that wasn't embarrassing but with good plot to have on while just chillin
Good to see Kat and Jay Pharoah in something together Plenty of good laughs
Good to see Kat and Jay Pharoah in something together Plenty of good laughs
Kinda Concerning
littlebabymia13 August 2020
VIEWS ON FILM review of 2 Minutes of Fame
burlesonjesse519 June 2020
Warning: Spoilers
"I'm not doing whatever I want, I'm following my dream". So says the character of Deandre McDonald when it comes to making people guffaw and completely bust a gut. McDonald with no money, no job, a best friend manager, and a family back in Alabama, ventures to LA to make it as a touring comedian. He rips his home state while becoming a YouTube monger in 2 Minutes of Fame (my latest review).
Anyway, "Fame" at a running time of ninety-seven minutes, showcases star Jay Pharoah as the biggest scene chewer this side of 1990's Jim Carrey. With impressions ranging anywhere from Jay-Z to Eddie Murphy to Tracy Morgan to Denzel, Pharoah is likable if not a little hit-or-miss playing lead McDonald (mentioned in the first paragraph).
Yeah Jay could have been funnier, 2 Minutes of Fame could have been a little more over the top, and Mike Epps could have killed it if someone offered him a slight cameo in the foreground. What's on screen is basically lightweight, R-rated fare and something an aspiring student of stand-up might get insight to. Yup, just imagine watching Last Comic Standing as a pseudo, potty-mouthed version. Then imagine a translucent fever dream that David Chappelle would have concocted right before he became a household name.
Directed by Leslie Small, featuring Katt Williams in a unique supporting role, and profusely made to subjugate today's Internet age, "Fame" is kinda stupid funny and reminded me of small scale comedies like Half Baked and 2006's Grandma's Boy. The film doesn't push any cruel envelope nor does it advanced the audacity of a career that Jay Pharoah might seek to have. Jay is basically playing himself here and with a direct-to-video feel, he doesn't exhibit enough padding to heighten his desired, star-making platform. Verdict: This "Fame" ain't no obscurity but it's no "grande dame" either. Rating: 2 and a half stars.
Anyway, "Fame" at a running time of ninety-seven minutes, showcases star Jay Pharoah as the biggest scene chewer this side of 1990's Jim Carrey. With impressions ranging anywhere from Jay-Z to Eddie Murphy to Tracy Morgan to Denzel, Pharoah is likable if not a little hit-or-miss playing lead McDonald (mentioned in the first paragraph).
Yeah Jay could have been funnier, 2 Minutes of Fame could have been a little more over the top, and Mike Epps could have killed it if someone offered him a slight cameo in the foreground. What's on screen is basically lightweight, R-rated fare and something an aspiring student of stand-up might get insight to. Yup, just imagine watching Last Comic Standing as a pseudo, potty-mouthed version. Then imagine a translucent fever dream that David Chappelle would have concocted right before he became a household name.
Directed by Leslie Small, featuring Katt Williams in a unique supporting role, and profusely made to subjugate today's Internet age, "Fame" is kinda stupid funny and reminded me of small scale comedies like Half Baked and 2006's Grandma's Boy. The film doesn't push any cruel envelope nor does it advanced the audacity of a career that Jay Pharoah might seek to have. Jay is basically playing himself here and with a direct-to-video feel, he doesn't exhibit enough padding to heighten his desired, star-making platform. Verdict: This "Fame" ain't no obscurity but it's no "grande dame" either. Rating: 2 and a half stars.
Pretty lame
digeifrunza4 July 2020
Not a comedy but good
Luvya011731 January 2021
Laughs Uneven, But Comic Dreams Shine Through
Mysterygeneration10 March 2024
In 2 Minutes of Fame, we follow Deandre, an ambitious comic who uses his internet notoriety to pursue a career in movies in Los Angeles. With varied effects, the film explores the temptations and dangers of overnight celebrity.
The film excels when it concentrates on the competitive stand-up scene. It feels real that Deandre is having difficulty honing his act and navigating club gigs. There will be cameos by well-known comedians like D. C. Young Fly and Katt Williams, which will delight fans of the genre.
The humor fluctuates in quality. While some routines are well received, others may not be suitable for all viewers due to their coarse humor. The plot, which pits Deandre's love of stand-up comedy against the Hollywood ideal, is not new.
The film excels when it concentrates on the competitive stand-up scene. It feels real that Deandre is having difficulty honing his act and navigating club gigs. There will be cameos by well-known comedians like D. C. Young Fly and Katt Williams, which will delight fans of the genre.
The humor fluctuates in quality. While some routines are well received, others may not be suitable for all viewers due to their coarse humor. The plot, which pits Deandre's love of stand-up comedy against the Hollywood ideal, is not new.
VERY entertaining feel good movie
dianemose29 June 2020
I wanted to watch something light and was delighted and surprised to watch this VERY funny feel good movie. Liked it so much I looked up Jay Pharoah who I wasn't familiar.with. Found out he is a SNL alum, which made sense. I am an independent film movie buff, that goes to the the Pan African Film Festival every year and this was well done and entertaining movie. When I saw that this movie was not rated well it motivated me to register for IMBD to start rating movies. I remember critics did not like the Five Heartbeats
It's basic .
clayshamz9 August 2020
Good Cast, Bad Movie
yoboyfromthela21 April 2023
2 Minutes of Fame is a movie that fails to deliver any originality or creativity in its premise. From beginning to end, every single aspect of the movie feels like a recycled, stale cliché that does nothing but bore its audience to tears.
From the opening scene, we're introduced to a stereotypical washed-up comedian who's been out of the game for too long. We're then subjected to an uninspired sequence of events as he tries to make a comeback, which includes a montage of him struggling to get back on stage and gain some traction in the world of comedy.
Along the way, we're introduced to a slew of other character archetypes that we've seen a million times before: the supportive best friend, the love interest who's unimpressed with his antics, the sleazy club owner who somehow has a heart of gold, and the rival comedian who provides a predictable challenge to the protagonist.
The dialogue in this movie is as cliché as it gets, with every line feeling like it was lifted straight from a by-the-numbers screenwriting manual. The jokes fall flat, the set pieces lack energy, and the pacing is tedious.
Overall, 2 Minutes of Fame is a movie that's easy to forget even as you're watching it. Its stale cliches and unoriginality offer no surprises or entertainment value, and it fails to leave any lasting impression on its audience. It's a forgettable movie that isn't worth your time or money.
This message has been generated by Nova - ChatGPT AI Chatbot.
From the opening scene, we're introduced to a stereotypical washed-up comedian who's been out of the game for too long. We're then subjected to an uninspired sequence of events as he tries to make a comeback, which includes a montage of him struggling to get back on stage and gain some traction in the world of comedy.
Along the way, we're introduced to a slew of other character archetypes that we've seen a million times before: the supportive best friend, the love interest who's unimpressed with his antics, the sleazy club owner who somehow has a heart of gold, and the rival comedian who provides a predictable challenge to the protagonist.
The dialogue in this movie is as cliché as it gets, with every line feeling like it was lifted straight from a by-the-numbers screenwriting manual. The jokes fall flat, the set pieces lack energy, and the pacing is tedious.
Overall, 2 Minutes of Fame is a movie that's easy to forget even as you're watching it. Its stale cliches and unoriginality offer no surprises or entertainment value, and it fails to leave any lasting impression on its audience. It's a forgettable movie that isn't worth your time or money.
This message has been generated by Nova - ChatGPT AI Chatbot.
Loved it!!
simonelemon11 July 2020
Talk about speaking the truth
morrise-3780612 September 2020
Movie reminds me of the music industry. A nephew of mine is attempting to enter the music industry and with social media the way that it is it reminds me of his journey. I try and tell him that you have to be you and y'all about your life because that is what reaches people. This movie is a great example of expression and is critical of how people that have been in an industry (e.g. Kat W. character) seems to loose themselves and loose that hunger. Go back to any artist's first hit album or movie and see/hear it again. True fans can notice a difference. It was a great representation of both ends of the success spectrum.
The ALL STAR Cast 15 out of 10
theeonlyjocelyn29 November 2020
Spoiler Alert & Showing Love for the movie - NO MOVIE SUMMARIES HERE
airedaleslife17 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
O.K. I really was not expecting much when I rented this movie; but, it's no secret that I LOVE Katt Williams and have admired Him / His Work / His Faith in God / His Approach to Life with all that it has contained - for decades!!! I have the Profoundest Level of Respect for Him and His Ethics.
Keke Palmer - She's is PHENOMENAL in every way and I could write novels about her for days!!!
I really like Jay Pharoah as a comedian and I am amazed by his spot-on impressions of A-list actors or musical artists.
The surprise cameos of Lunell, George Wallace & Sinbad were a welcome addition to this movie plot line and I am so glad to see that they joined this cast.
Bottom Line - I throughly enjoyed this movie and it has A LOT of Heart!! It gave me a continued appreciation for the labors of comedians and their plight to bring laughter / humor into this pandemic ridden world.
God Bless each of You and all those that worked tirelessly to bring this gem to the public eye.
Disclaimer: The language in this movie is a bit rough, so for my Christian friends/family - please be aware of this fact ahead of time.
Keke Palmer - She's is PHENOMENAL in every way and I could write novels about her for days!!!
I really like Jay Pharoah as a comedian and I am amazed by his spot-on impressions of A-list actors or musical artists.
The surprise cameos of Lunell, George Wallace & Sinbad were a welcome addition to this movie plot line and I am so glad to see that they joined this cast.
Bottom Line - I throughly enjoyed this movie and it has A LOT of Heart!! It gave me a continued appreciation for the labors of comedians and their plight to bring laughter / humor into this pandemic ridden world.
God Bless each of You and all those that worked tirelessly to bring this gem to the public eye.
Disclaimer: The language in this movie is a bit rough, so for my Christian friends/family - please be aware of this fact ahead of time.
Hella Funny
mrjtlyons22 August 2020
Hella Funny 😂 Don't read these comments and miss a decent comedy flick that hits. It has some of our hottest comedians in the game making even better. It's no Harlem Nights, but the spot lights on black comedians got that same flavor. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Feel good black comedy
glovecd3 September 2020
Hilarious
lawsturdivantjr1 April 2021
A few minutes to smile
fmatt-889802 September 2020
Warning: Spoilers
This was a surprisingly fun comedy. The casting of Katt Williams as the badguy turned mentor with newcomer Jay Pharoah in the lead worked quite well. The jokes were good, too. The ending was predictable, but who cares? This movie deserved a happy ending.
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