Comedians Matt Price and Martha McBrier are set to be the subject of a new comedy documentary.
The as-yet-untitled film will follow a year in the life of the couple, partners in real life, from now until next year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Shooting began at this year’s festival by the newly formed production company Open Gate Comedy.
It follows Price’s disastrous attempts to film a self-funded comedy special in his hometown of Truro, Cornwall, which has yet to see the light of day.
Duncan Hart, Open Gate’s creative director, says that recording was hijacked by drunken hecklers.
‘Although Matt dealt with it in his customary hilarious and self-deprecating way - some audience members thought it was all set up,’ he said. ‘That wasn't the case - Matt genuinely wanted to film last years Edinburgh show Raging Bill but was consistently forced to do crowd work.
‘Anyone who knows Matt knows he excels at that, but it's not really what he wanted to do. On top of that the production company who filmed it did an OK job, but it could have been much better.
‘So when I spoke to Matt last year, he was really down. However, I think there's a great story there and we've come up with a really interesting way to tell it. It means people will finally be able to experience some of that comedy car crash for themselves and follow Matt as he looks to record a new special.’
Price’s latest show, As Seen on CCTV, was recently nominated for best show in the Comedians' Choice Awards at the Fringe.
He said: ‘If this documentary goes as badly wrong as my special, it'll make great viewing. I'm looking forward to working with Duncan and Open Gate Comedy – as long as they film my good side.’
And McBrier added: 'Behind every successful man there's a great woman. I can't wait to have a successful man to stand behind!'
As part of the documentary, Hart – pictured above, left, with Price – is on the hunt for comedians and comedy fans who know Matt and would like to be featured talking about their experiences of working or watching him.
‘I also want to film people's reactions to bits of the aborted special for the documentary.’ he said. ‘ Anyone who's interested or who has a story to tell please email duncan@opengatecomedy.tv and put "Matt" in the subject line.’
There is no news yet as to where the film will be distributed
Open Gate Comedy will also soon be holding open submissions for writers and comedians with scripts and ideas they want to develop for TV. Visit www.opengatecomedy.tv
