Photo Credit: Scott Moran
At the beginning of his new documentary and stand-up special, Live Without Fear, comedian Rory Scovel acts out the scene from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade when Harrison Ford dramatically takes a giant step forward trusting that an invisible bridge will appear before him. The bit provides instant hilarity while also serving as a metaphor about the madness and bravery required when taking a leap of faith with hopes of creating something special in the world of comedy.
With Live Without Fear – out on YouTube on June 24 via 800 Pound Gorilla Media – director Scott Moran documents Scovel’s experience in performing six straight nights of fully-improvised comedy at the Relapse Theatre in Atlanta, GA back in 2018. Each set is completely unique as Scovel finds the funny in everything from current headlines to interactions with the audience. Fans also get a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes moments with candid clips and talking head interviews during which Scovel dissects the ups and downs of the shows.
An unexpected highlight of the project comes in the inclusion of the story of the Relapse Theatre itself and the venue’s hardworking owner, Bob Wood. Much like Scovel’s improv-inspired leap of faith, Wood puts everything he’s got into comedy. In Wood’s case this means creating a people-centric club and trusting that, with hard work and faith, he will overcome the recurring obstacles that stand in the way of the venue’s success.
As a stand-up special, Live Without Fear is a hilarious glimpse at one comedian’s quest to find that fresh spark on stage to fuel a one-of-a-kind comedy-going experience. As a documentary, it is an inspiring and insightful tale of how diving into the unknown can at once be terrifying and exhilarating.
Check out Live Without Fear on YouTube and click here to keep up with Rory Scovel on Instagram.