First published 2015
Patton Oswalt moves to Los Angeles in 1995 with dreams of comedy stardom. He discovers the New Beverly Cinema and develops an all-consuming obsession with films. Night after night, he watches classics, cult favorites, and new releases. Movies become his education in acting, writing, and human relationships. The cinema's regulars form a quirky community around their shared passion. Oswalt struggles to balance his film addiction with his budding career as a stand-up comedian. LA's alternative comedy scene provides the backdrop as he performs alongside other young comedians who will later find fame. His movie obsession both fuels and threatens his professional growth. The story follows his transformation from uncertain newcomer to confident sitcom actor. Oswalt must learn to channel his cinematic knowledge without letting it consume his real life. This memoir captures the tension between artistic inspiration and personal obsession during four pivotal years.
222 pages · Hardcover · Scribner