Is Margaret Cho: Assassin Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2005)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2005, Margaret Cho: Assassin represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Comedy category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Margaret Cho returns to the concert stage with a "killer" one-woman show that has taken audiences by storm. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Margaret Cho returns to the concert stage with a "killer" one-woman show that has taken audiences by storm. Filmed live at the Warner Theatre in Washington D.C., Assassin features a fresh dose of Margaret’s ground-breaking and controversial brand of humor. Taking aim at the Bush administration and the religious right, she pulls no punches in her assault on the "ever devolving" state of the union. The result is an unforgettable performance featuring Margaret at her raw, irreverent and hilarious best."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Margaret Cho ensure that the emotional beats of Margaret Cho: Assassin always land with sufficient weight. Margaret Cho provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Kerry Asmussen is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 90 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Margaret Cho: Assassin truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.8/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Margaret Cho: Assassin explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2005 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Kerry Asmussen respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Margaret Cho: Assassin serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Margaret Cho or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Margaret Cho: Assassin is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.