Gabriel Iglesias has, since the early 2000’s, entertained audiences with his witty commentary and borderline raunchy jokes. I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy finds Mr. Iglesias in his prime, in El Paso, Texas with a crowd, not only familiar with him, but wonderful in terms of their commitment and their reactions to his comedy.
Seeing comedians or musicians live is as wonderful as it is in part due to the crowd. The crowd allows the performer to become energized and helps drive the performance forward. Iglesias’ audience in El Paso responds wonderfully to his jokes and keeps the audience at home engaged and entertained. It is clear early on that his stage presence is impeccable and he gets audiences excited. The fact, however, that the audience is so engaged in what Iglesias says is a testament not just to his comedy, but also his wit and ability to adapt to his surroundings.
Iglesias’ comedy, while very similar to what his shows usually look like, changes to a degree to appeal to those in the audience. He often references locations familiar to those in the El Paso area and helps those in the audience feel like he genuinely appreciates where he is and the people who call that place home. His ability to adapt to his surroundings and the people standing right in front of him and let them know he cares plays a significant role in what makes him so appealing to audiences.
Oftentimes I find that comedy specials contain some sort of a lull in the action so to speak. I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy never fails to entertain, and the expected lull never happens. Iglesias manages never to let a joke fail and always finds a way to ensure that his audience is having fun. Gabriel Iglesias’ voices and facial expression are his comedic signature and it is important that audiences at home are able to see and experience what those in person do. I often ask myself how much camera work and directing comes into play during stand-up comedy specials. It becomes clear how important these aspects of the specials are, especially when dealing with someone like Iglesias. Director Manny Rodriguez and the camera crew find ways to accurately capture his emotion, both physically and vocally.
Gabriel Iglesias: I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy, brings audiences to tears with the incredible comedy, and it also does some things that audiences are not used to seeing at a comedy show. First, Iglesias makes it a point to stop his show and explain to the audience and everyone else that he genuinely appreciates his fans. He lets them know that he encourages his fans to approach him in public, ask for pictures and engage in conversation. Furthermore, he regularly makes fun of his own weight. He instills confidence in his younger audiences and pulls laughter out of everyone else. Iglesias tows the line between innocence and raunchy comedy, appealing to anyone and everyone. I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy is fun for the whole family, touches on topics that all can relate to and reaches audiences in ways that other comedians cannot.
Directed by Manny Rodriguez. Written by Gabriel Iglesias. Starring Gabriel Iglesias.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/10
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