Podcast Summary: "We Might Be Drunk" – Episode 211 Featuring Ben Schwartz on "Sonic The Hedgehog 3"

Release Date: December 23, 2024

In Episode 211 of "We Might Be Drunk," hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand sit down with comedian and actor Ben Schwartz to discuss his latest project, the upcoming film "Sonic The Hedgehog 3." The episode, produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC, offers listeners an entertaining blend of comedy insights, personal anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of stand-up and improv comedy.

1. Introduction to Ben Schwartz and "Sonic The Hedgehog 3" [00:06 - 02:25]

The episode begins with a warm welcome to Ben Schwartz, who is promoting "Sonic The Hedgehog 3." The hosts express their excitement and curiosity about Ben's role in the film.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Schwartz [00:35]: "But we thought it would be funny if we ended it by like being like, oh, my God, we're gonna get canceled."

2. Reflections on "The Roast of 2024" [02:25 - 05:00]

Sam and Mark dive into their recent experience at "The Roast of 2024." They candidly share their disappointment with the event, labeling it "one of the worst of all time."

Notable Quotes:

• Sam Morril [00:23]: "Definitely not the Roast of the Year. It was one of the worst of all time."
• Ben Schwartz [00:37]: "We did well. I ended horribly. I fucked up the ending."

3. Behind the Scenes: Technical Glitches and Improvisation [05:00 - 10:00]

Ben recounts a humorous mishap during the roast where technical issues disrupted their set, including forgetting to bring a phone and improvising on the spot.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [00:50]: "It killed. We did it at the club and it killed."
• Sam Morril [00:48]: "Oh, that's cool. And you still have his phone now?"

4. The Dynamics of Stand-Up and Improv Comedy [10:00 - 15:00]

The conversation shifts to the differences between stand-up and improv comedy. Ben shares his journey through various improv groups and highlights the supportive yet challenging nature of live performances.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Normand [09:35]: "It's like magic. You see someone who's bad... but when you see them excel, it's incredible."
• Ben Schwartz [13:21]: "Improv is like magic. If you're great at it, it's insane."

5. Navigating Success and Press Tours [15:00 - 20:00]

Ben and Mark discuss the pressures of handling success, particularly when promoting a major film like "Sonic The Hedgehog 3." They talk about the exhaustion that comes with extensive press tours and the relentless demand to perform flawlessly.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [19:31]: "You always feel like a fraud on some level."
• Mark Normand [19:10]: "Yeah, we did well. It was a little unorganized."

6. Nostalgia for Classic Video Games and Pop Culture [20:00 - 30:00]

The trio reminisces about classic video games, focusing on the Sonic franchise. Ben shares his childhood experiences playing as Tails and his humorous disdain for certain aspects of the game.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [02:15]: "As a kid growing up, I liked it. But I'm a younger brother, so my brother would make me be Tails."
• Mark Normand [03:07]: "I thought they were like 48, by the way."

7. Tribute to Gary Shanley and the Legacy of Comedy [30:00 - 40:00]

A heartfelt segment honoring the late comedian Gary Shanley. The hosts share personal stories about Gary's impact on their lives and the comedy community. They reflect on his spiritual outlook and the deep bonds formed through shared experiences in improv and stand-up.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Normand [43:40]: "Gary Shanley was the king of comedy. We miss him so much."
• Ben Schwartz [44:44]: "That is insane. We're getting older. We're all getting older."

8. Favorite Comedy Shows and Influences [40:00 - 50:00]

Ben, Sam, and Mark discuss their favorite comedy shows and the comedians who have influenced their styles. They praise classics like "The Larry Sanders Show," "Whose Line Is It Anyway?," and "Parks and Recreation," highlighting how these shows have shaped modern comedy.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [35:00]: "We've worked together for 15 years."
• Mark Normand [59:00]: "Parks and Rec is number one for me."

9. Upcoming Projects and Tours [50:00 - 80:00]

Ben shares details about his upcoming tour, including dates and locations, emphasizing his enthusiasm for performing live improv with "Ben Schwartz and Friends." The hosts encourage listeners to support their shows and the "Sonic The Hedgehog 3" premiere.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [79:00]: "Come check it out."
• Mark Normand [78:36]: "We sold out Sydney Opera House. So exciting."

10. Final Thoughts and Promotions [80:00 - End]

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Ben exchange final thoughts, promote Ben's movie and tour, and share a lighthearted moment about their own ventures, including a whiskey brand.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [80:06]: "Check out Sonic 3 and see me on the road."
• Sam Morril [82:31]: "Happy Hanukkah, everybody."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Sam Morril [00:23]: "Definitely not the Roast of the Year. It was one of the worst of all time."
• Ben Schwartz [00:35]: "But we thought it would be funny if we ended it by like being like, oh, my God, we're gonna get canceled."
• Mark Normand [13:21]: "Improv is like magic. If you're great at it, it's insane."
• Ben Schwartz [19:31]: "You always feel like a fraud on some level."
• Mark Normand [43:40]: "Gary Shanley was the king of comedy. We miss him so much."
• Ben Schwartz [35:00]: "We've worked together for 15 years."
• Sam Morril [82:31]: "Happy Hanukkah, everybody."

Conclusion:

Episode 211 of "We Might Be Drunk" offers a captivating blend of humor, introspection, and industry insights. From reflecting on challenging performances at roasts to celebrating the legacy of beloved comedians like Gary Shanley, Ben Schwartz provides a multifaceted view into the life of a modern comedian balancing film promotions with live performances. Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of stories that highlight the camaraderie, struggles, and triumphs inherent in the world of comedy.

For those interested in experiencing more of Ben Schwartz's work or catching his live improv shows, be sure to check out his official website and tour schedule linked at the end of the podcast.