Stand Up Comedy

Occasionally, through some convergence of timing, observation, and sheer nerve, a comedian comes along with a set so inspired it hits the universal funny bone like it's never been hit before. We've got a selection of sublime lunacy, from Steve Coogan's character-led "Paul Calf" to Chris Rock's super-charged "Crazy White Kids".

A microphone, a stage, and an audience are all a comedian could ever ask for. Once in a blue moon, they have turned those basic ingredients into something extraordinary. King of the septic rant, Lewis Black rips heartily into Starbucks in "The End of the Universe" and wild-eyed Brummie Jasper Carrott deconstructs the "new man" in "Vasectomy".

It's now time to take the hilarity to a higher place and risk death by guffaw, as we deliver the funniest bits that haven't yet been misquoted to death. Lesser-known maestros of the stand-up mic include perplexed Scotsman Arnold Brown ("Sex and Sheep") and investigative satirist Paul Krassner ("Cannabis Cup").

For half a century comedians have been recorded right where they live and breathe: on the stage. Our stand-up heroes have all taken comedy to new levels, and we love them even though they force us — by brandishing the weapon of laughter — to relinquish control of our bladders. Expose yourself to this sweet torture, and the likes of Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, Eddie Izzard, and Bill Hicks will expose themselves to you. Prepare to see it all hang out.