It ’tis t’he season to buy stuff for each other, as it is, afterall, the holiday. So we’ve compiled a gift guide for those interested in “ha-ha-ing” out their mouth holes, or making other people do so.
Books:
And Here’s The Kicker by Mike Sacks
For those interested in reading about writing about comedy, And Here’s The Kicker will suit you fine. Writers behind Mad Magazine, Annie Hall, The Daily Show and The Simpsons (and really, a ton more) all weigh in on their craft. If you’re serious about being silly, seriously, this book is silly-good.
Causing a Scene: Extraordinary Pranks in Ordinary Places with Improv Everywhere by Alex Scordelis
First hand accounts of what it takes to play some of the internet’s most notorious pranks- or happeneings- or whatever. Alls I’m saying is, not wearing pants on the subway is funny, and this book will teach you how to convince people to do that with you (no, it wont).
More Information Than You Require by John Hodgman
The follow up to Hodgman’s The Areas of My Expertise, came out on paperback recently, and picks up right were it’s predecessor left off (literally, on page 234). Anyone who has ever spent time in my bathroom knows, these books are favorites of mine.
The Funniest One in the Room: The Lives and Legends of Del Close by Kim “Howard” Johnson
There are plenty of resources for those curious about the father of modern improv’s life and his teachings. Any way you slice it, reading up on Del Close’s inspired, eccentric and tripped-out life, is a treat for the hilario in your life.
Comics:
The Perry Bible Fellowship Almanac by Nicholas Gurewitch
A must for anyone who loves web comics, but hates computers. Finally, you can read all this awesome strip on old fashioned paper and ink.
Along the same lines, any of David Rees’ clip art based collections are an excellent choice for the politicos and knuckleheads in your life, alike. His fighting technique, and filing techniques are both unstoppable, you know.
Tales Designed To Thrizzle by Michael Kupperman
Takes you on a post-modern ride through comicbookdom. Weird and funny – perfect for your weird, funny friends (or Mom or whatever).
Unlovable by Esther Pearl Watson
Watson’s collection of mini-comics adapted (and embellished) from a diary she found in a public bathroom during a road trip are finally collected in this glittery little pink book. Expect a hairier, hornier Ghostworld.
Pod Cast Donations:
If you have a comedy fan on your Christmas list who has too much junk in his tiny apartment already, donating a little bit of cash to their favorite podcast is a great option. It’s like charity for hipsters, only funnier.
Never Not Funny, The Sound of Young America, You look Nice Today & Tiki Bar TV are all worthwhile independent podcasts who could use your cash and will make you look in the know.
New DVD Releases This Year:
This seminal sketch show is finally out on DVD. It’s influence can be traced through most contemporary sketch comedy, but its raw weirdness is still at it’s most potent in this classic show.
The Holidays are the perfect time to share the best comedy on network TV with a loved one. All anyone ever really wants is a good sandwich, but 30 Rock comes in second.
Yeah, these may be a little obvious, but that isn’t totally a bad thing. Picking up one of the biggest comedies of the year may be one of the safest bets you can make (and you can probably find them cheap at Target last minute. You know what I’m talking about).
If you’re shopping for someone nerdy, or who likes to laugh at nerds (which, according to movies is everyone, right?) check out this BBC series, the IT Crowd. Maybe Steve Carrell can star in the American remake.
And of course, you cannot forget to grab the Atom.com Season 2 set on itunes for only 7.99! You’ll get a ton of our best videos from the past year, all in ipod form. Now you can watch Atom at the gym (because there’s nothing like laughing hysterically while working out).
Geekery:
Jack Black stars in gaming legend Tim Schafer’s latest effort, metal-headed Brutal Legend. There hasn’t been a game this enjoyable (or funny) since Shafer’s last, Pyschonauts.
Both funny and addicting, Plants Vs. Zombies is the perfect distraction at work, or during the boring parts of any holiday season.
Basically anything at the AST store will likely go over well, but the Comedy Death Ray 2010 Calendar and Christmas CD combo is especially hot right now.
Whoopee Cushions:
There are so many whoopee cushions! Did you know that? There are so many whoopee cushions, and that is the greatest gift of all.
(OK, you probably shouldn’t buy anyone over the age of 10 a whoopee cushion and expect them to enjoy it, unless that person is me, in which case, yes, you can buy me a whoopee cushion and I will enjoy it… immensely).
So that’s what I want for Christmas (hint hint MOM). If you’re still not satisfied, you can always try Regretsy for some holiday loot. Let me know if I missed anything, because there’s nothing like having anonymous strangers remind you of your shortcomings during the merriest time of year.
*Editors note: This is actually stuff I personally endorse, and has nothing to do with any corporate sponsorships or whatever.
Got something we should feature on the blog? Send a link to tips@atom.com.
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