"Don't Think Twice" A Comedic Film about Improv Proves Funny

Michael Birbiglia is the writer/dir & star of "Don't Think Twice" takes a serious/comedic look inside the workings of an improv group & their groping for immortality through celebrity.  This charming, at times endearing film begins with COMMUNE, an improv comedy group breaking down the mechanics & historic beginnings to what is deemed an art form into 3 rules:  1) say yes to everything & build on the situation 2) it's about the group as a whole; not the individual and 3) "Don't Think" be impulsive "As you're falling - figure out what to do on your way down."  Rules are made to be broken & it's rule #2 that gets bent out of shape and causes the minimal conflict & character arcs in the film.   The upside  is the entire ensemble cast.  The downside is that the characters tend to blend and no comic is left behind - for the most part.  The COMMUNE performs in a rundown Bklyn venue where the cover is $5 (incredulous.)  There is an on with the show ethos that is cringe worthy.  But, on the night a scout (from Night Live) is rumored to be in the audience, Miles (Birbiglia) the leader of the pack admonishes the troupe, Jack (Keegean-Michael Key) in particular, NO showboating.  Nevertheless, Jack pops out from the pack. He & his girlfriend (Gillian Jacobs) are contacted for an audition for Night Live.  As expected, Jack lands the part.  His sweetheart pulls a no show and the COMMUNE begins to crumble.   The movie has moments of tenderness & earnestness.  It also has its pathetic side - when will these 30 SOMETHINGS grow-up.  I liked this film which gives a look behind the curtain of comedy in the making.  I had fun with the film but this was a movie that you didn't have think twice of where it was going.  It was predictable plotting with a likable cast that proved failure & heartache easier to bear.