- The Original Kings of Comedy (2000)
- The Aristocrats (2005)
- Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain (2013)
- Mike Birbiglia: My Girlfriend's Boyfriend (2013)
- Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work (2010)
- George Carlin: Life Is Worth Losing (2005)
- Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted (2015)
- Richard Pryor: Live in Concert (1979)
- Comedian (2002)
- Jerry Seinfeld: I'm Telling You for the Last Time (1998)
If you loved 'The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling' (2018), this article is for you. Dive into 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same introspective humor, raw honesty, and behind-the-scenes brilliance of the legendary comedian's life. Whether you're a fan of documentaries, stand-up specials, or heartfelt storytelling, this list has something to pique your interest.

The Original Kings of Comedy (2000)
Description: A concert film that celebrates the art of stand-up comedy, featuring legendary comedians who have shaped the industry with their unique voices and perspectives.
Fact: The film was directed by Spike Lee and was one of the highest-grossing stand-up comedy films of its time. It helped bring African-American comedy to a broader audience.


The Aristocrats (2005)
Description: A documentary that delves into the world of stand-up comedy, showcasing the craft and personal journeys of comedians, much like an exploration of a comedian's life and legacy.
Fact: The film features over 100 comedians telling the same joke, 'The Aristocrats,' each with their own unique twist. It was banned from several film festivals due to its explicit content.


Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain (2013)
Description: A high-energy stand-up special that captures the essence of a comedian's rise to fame, blending humor with personal growth and resilience.
Fact: The film was shot during Hart's international tour and became one of the highest-grossing comedy specials of all time.


Mike Birbiglia: My Girlfriend's Boyfriend (2013)
Description: A stand-up special that weaves together personal anecdotes and reflections on relationships, demonstrating how comedians turn life experiences into art.
Fact: The special was later adapted into Birbiglia's off-Broadway show and received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and emotional depth.


Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work (2010)
Description: A documentary that provides an intimate look at the life and career of a groundbreaking comedian, highlighting the struggles and triumphs behind the laughter.
Fact: The film was shot over the course of a year and captures Rivers' relentless work ethic and her comeback after personal and professional setbacks.


George Carlin: Life Is Worth Losing (2005)
Description: A stand-up special that blends humor with deep philosophical and societal critiques, reflecting a comedian's introspective and often poignant take on life.
Fact: This was Carlin's 12th HBO stand-up special and was recorded just three years before his death. The special includes his famous 'Modern Man' routine.


Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted (2015)
Description: A stand-up special that combines humor with deeply personal storytelling, showcasing a comedian's ability to find laughter in the face of adversity.
Fact: Notaro's special was recorded shortly after her battle with cancer and became a critical success for its raw and honest approach to comedy.


Richard Pryor: Live in Concert (1979)
Description: A groundbreaking stand-up special that blends humor with social commentary, showcasing a comedian's ability to address serious topics through comedy.
Fact: This was Pryor's first concert film and is often regarded as one of the greatest stand-up performances of all time. It was filmed in Long Beach, California.


Comedian (2002)
Description: A documentary that follows the journey of a comedian rebuilding their career, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of stand-up comedy.
Fact: The film features Jerry Seinfeld as he returns to stand-up after the end of his hit TV show, showcasing the grueling process of crafting new material.


Jerry Seinfeld: I'm Telling You for the Last Time (1998)
Description: A stand-up special that marks a pivotal moment in a comedian's career, as they retire their classic material to start anew, reflecting on their legacy.
Fact: Seinfeld performed this special in front of a sold-out crowd at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City, and it was later released as an album and film.
