Well excuuuuse me!

Anyone who has ever seen the movie "The Jerk" can remember the outrageous role of "Navin Johnson." Steve Martin's lillywhite character who was born a "poor black boy." The hillariously innovative classic marked only the beginning of Martin's highly-touted movie career. However, as doors were opening up on the big screen, Martin's nearly 15-year magic and standup career.

When I noticed the new autobiography "Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life" at the lazy Sunderland library, I was excited and couldn't wait to read the story of why one of my comedic idols walked away from standup while he was selling out stadiums.

I've always wondered what happened to his standup. I remember being a little kid and watching reruns of SNL and seeing Martin singing "King Tut" and dying with laughter. Later, Martin's timing in movies like "The Jerk" and "The Lonely Guy" always struck me as perfect for the stage.

I read the book in about three sittings (not something I often have the time for anymore). It was very frank and often very candid about Martin's borderline obsessive relationship with rehearsing standup, as well as his fond memories and nightmares during his stage comedy career.

Throughout the book Martin made no attempt to glamorize his story, or even curb any humiliating moments. He was honest about stage fright, depression, failures and successes.

Overall the book made me respect one of my favorite comedians as a true pioneer in his field. His contributions to standup, acting, directing, and writing are enormous, and I believe he has a great deal more to offer future audiences.

In short, check out this book.

But before you do that, use this classic video clip of comedy legends Martin and John Candy in perhaps the best holiday movie of all time "Trains, Planes, and Automobiles."





John Candy & Steve Martin - video powered by Metacafe