Matt Rife: Natural Selection 2023 Movie Review

Matt Rife’s comedy special, “Natural Selection,” was a disappointing experience from start to finish. It’s hard to believe that this was the same comedian known for his lively audience interactions and quick wit because, in this special, he fell flat.

First and foremost, it’s evident that “Natural Selection” was rushed to production. The jokes felt forced and lacked the natural flow that is crucial for any successful comedy performance. It’s almost as if Rife decided to throw together a mishmash of half-baked ideas without bothering to refine or polish them. The result? A cringe-worthy collection of jokes that left me questioning how this special even made it to the screen.

One of the most disappointing aspects was the complete absence of audience interaction, something that Rife has built a reputation for. In “Natural Selection,” it felt like he was merely going through the motions, robotically delivering punchlines without feeding off the energy of a live crowd. The lack of engagement with the audience robbed the performance of the spontaneity and authenticity that could have potentially salvaged this sinking ship.

Let’s talk about the humor, or rather the lack thereof. The jokes in “Natural Selection” were stale, predictable, and, frankly, not funny. Rife seemed to rely on tired clichés and recycled comedic tropes, leaving me wondering if he put any effort into crafting material that could genuinely connect with his audience. The punchlines were met with awkward silence rather than the hearty laughter one would expect from a seasoned comedian.

In the end, “Natural Selection” is a regrettable addition to Matt Rife’s body of work. It lacked the charm, humor, and audience engagement that fans have come to expect from him. Skip this one – your funny bone will thank you.