When Jews Were Funny

This documentary delves into the historical significance of Jewish humor in American culture, focusing on the contributions of notable comedians like Shecky Greene, Howie Mandel, and Shelley Berman. With a runtime of 89 minutes, the film raises questions about the reasons behind the dominance of Jewish comedians in the industry during the mid-20th century.

Alan Zweig invites viewers to reflect on the cultural shifts that led to the decline of this phenomenon. The film not only highlights the comedic landscape of the past but also seeks to understand the implications of this change on Jewish identity and cultural heritage. By blending interviews with archival footage, Zweig provides a comprehensive look at a unique aspect of comedy history that remains relevant today.