DON'T THINK TWICE (2016)

Summary:

Don't Think Twice is a poignant comedy-drama that delves into the lives of a New York improv comedy troupe called "The Commune." The film explores the dynamics of friendship, ambition, and the bittersweet reality of pursuing creative dreams when one member lands a coveted spot on a popular sketch comedy show, leaving the others to grapple with their own aspirations, jealousy, and the potential dissolution of their tightly-knit group.

It's a heartfelt and often humorous look at the challenges artists face in balancing their passion with the pressures of success, failure, and the inevitable changes within long-standing relationships.

Keywords: Don't Think Twice, 2016, Keegan-Michael Key, Gillian Jacobs, Mike Birbiglia, Improv, Comedy, Drama, Friendship.

Plot:

The film centers on "The Commune," a six-person improv group performing at a small theater in New York City. The members—Jack, Sam, Miles, Allison, Bill, and Lindsay—have been performing together for years, forming a deep bond built on shared creative passion and mutual support. Their world is shaken when they learn their beloved theater is closing, and two of their members, Jack and Sam, are invited to audition for "Weekend Live," a major national sketch comedy show, a clear path to mainstream success.

Jack gets the part, while Sam, his girlfriend, does not. This creates an immediate rift within the group. As Jack's career takes off, the remaining members struggle with their own stagnating careers, feelings of envy, and the fear of being left behind. Miles, the group's founder and spiritual leader, grapples with past missed opportunities and his own unfulfilled potential. Allison and Bill face personal and professional doubts, while Lindsay tries to hold the fracturing group together. The film masterfully portrays the emotional complexities of friendship under pressure, the varying definitions of success, and the difficult choices artists must make when their dreams collide with reality, ultimately exploring what it means to truly support those you love, even when their success highlights your own perceived failures.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Keegan-Michael Key as Jack
• Gillian Jacobs as Sam
• Mike Birbiglia as Miles
• Kate Micucci as Allison
• Chris Gethard as Bill
• Tami Sagher as Lindsay

Crew:

• Director: Mike Birbiglia
• Writer: Mike Birbiglia
• Producers: Mike Birbiglia, Ira Glass, Amanda Marshall, Jacob Pechenik
• Cinematography: Adam Beckman
• Editor: Geoffrey Richman

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: July 22, 2016 (USA - Limited)
• Language: English
• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• Running Time: 92 minutes
• Accolades: National Board of Review Top Ten Independent Films, Gotham Independent Film Award nomination for Best Screenplay.