"Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald" Review: Giving a Comedy Original His Flowers

As I get older, I often find myself reading about the passing of someone who entertained me during my youth. I remember their jokes, movies, and the first time I discovered their work. That is part of what makes Judd Apatow’s Netflix documentary “Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald” such a welcome watch. Sometimes, we want to sit with those memories and honor their legacy.

For many viewers, Norm Macdonald will always be remembered as the man behind the “Weekend Update” desk on “Saturday Night Live.” His deadpan delivery could make the most absurd observation seem completely reasonable. It felt like Norm was enjoying the joke on a deeper level than everyone else. He would take his time finishing the story, no matter what.

Apatow constructs the documentary entirely from archival footage, personal photographs, and rare home videos contributed by friends and fans. Letting Norm’s voice guide the experience fits someone whose appeal came from his storytelling. His delivery was central to the joke, and Norm knew exactly how to build anticipation.

My fondness for him also extends to the movie “Dirty Work,” which I have enjoyed for years. I still find its absurd revenge-business premise hilarious and appreciate how well Norm fits into that chaos. He could make me laugh just by appearing as if he had stumbled into a situation and decided to stick around. The film knew exactly what it was.

Watching the documentary also sparked a personal “what if.” Despite his comedy background, I wish Norm had a chance to reinvent himself, similar to Bob Odenkirk in “Nobody.” I would have loved to see a filmmaker take a risk on his familiar face in an unfamiliar role. We’ll never know how that would have turned out, but it’s an intriguing thought.

The documentary gives me another reason to appreciate the stand-up performer beyond his well-known television credits. Norm had an innate ability to lead audiences down unexpected paths, and that confidence was part of his charm. He could make the long way around feel like the main focus.

While revisiting someone whose work is still available feels sad, it’s bittersweet to know there will be no new material. Thankfully, the laughter remains. “Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald” offers longtime fans a chance to rediscover him, while newcomers have a great starting point. As for me, another viewing of “Dirty Work” sounds like a perfect follow-up.

Final Grade: B+

“Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald” is now streaming on Netflix.