Événement

Ian Cognito - A Life and Death on Stage (Film)

A documentary about one of the most popular, controversial and troubled comedians in the UK. His performances were unforgettable, youd certainly remember a Cogs gig. Youll have seen crowds in fits of laughter, witnessed people walking out and see parts of the stage destroyed.

In this love letter to live comedy we find out more about the legendary comedian. We learn about the scene in the 1980s, the rise of alternative comedy and some of the unique acts that existed.

We see exclusive footage from his shows in big comedy clubs, in the back of pubs and at The Glastonbury Festival. There is a cavalcade of stories, jokes, songs and behaviour that would often excite or repel an audience and would lead to him being the most banned comedian in the UK.

The fights and fallouts are retold and we even find out his real name. We hear about the famous fight with Ricky Grover at The Edinburgh Festival which ended his run of shows, even before they began!

Insight is gained about his alcoholism, the decline in his health and the host of his final gig tells us what happened the night he died and how his outlandish nature may have been the reason why, when he was dying onstage, people thought it was actually part of his act.

We discuss why he never became famous until he died and renowned comedians talk about his legacy. Theres an important discussion about offensiveness, how far is to far and is it sensible to ever hammer a nail into the wall on stage to hang your coat?

Starring Stewart Lee, Matt Lucas, Jo Brand, James Acaster, Shappi Khorsandi. Bob Mills and Ian Stone.

Its not an understatement to say he was an icon of the industry. Many comics would agree, including him!

Film to be followed by reminiscences of Cogs...if you dare!

List of Film Festival Accolades:

Winner:
Miami Indie Film Awards
LA Indies
Calcutta International Cult Film Festival
Royal Society of Television & Motion Picture Awards

Semi Finalists:
Hong Kong Indie Film Festival
Alt FF Alternative Film Festival

Selected:
Cannes International Cinema Festival
London Movie Awards

Montreal Independent Film Festival
Crystal Palace International Film Festival