Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie (2013)
Documentary
Stream itif you enjoy self-deprecating British eccentricity and stories of relentless, joyful persistence against all odds.
A riotous and affectionately chaotic tribute to a man who turned professional failure into a celebrated art form. It is a hilarious underdog story that will appeal to fans of eccentric British humor and the grit of the music industry.
What Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie is like, and who it is for
What it is like to watch
Watching this is a chaotic, high-energy experience that mirrors its subject’s frantic stage presence. It moves at a brisk pace, blending grainy archival footage with candid modern interviews to create a sense of shambolic brilliance. The tone is relentlessly upbeat despite the title, capturing the DIY spirit of a man who refuses to let a lack of traditional success stand in his way. It feels like a boisterous pub story told by your funniest, most enthusiastic friend.
Who it is for, and who should skip it
This is a treat for fans of British cult icons and anyone who finds beauty in the struggle of the underdog. It will resonate with viewers who appreciate the grit of the pre-digital music industry and the sheer audacity of self-promotion. However, those who demand high-gloss production values or who are unfamiliar with this specific brand of self-mockery might find it a little exhausting. The honest caveat is that Otway’s peculiar charm is an acquired taste that dominates every frame.
The right evening for it
It is perfect for a light-hearted evening when you want something life-affirming and genuinely funny. It suits a relaxed night in where the goal is to feel better about your own minor failures.
Written by our AI from the facts on this page. It has opinions; it has not watched it.
If you like this, try
Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008)
the same mixture of musical delusion and genuine heart
Searching for Sugar Man (2012)
a similar exploration of obscure musical careers and belated recognition
The Devil and Daniel Johnston (2005)
a portrait of an equally idiosyncratic and eccentric musical figure
Suggested by our AI for what they share with this one. Linked titles have a page here; the rest are worth a search on the browse page.
What it is about
Documentary about the rise and fall and rise again of the legendary John Otway.
Questions people ask
- Is Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie a funny documentary?
- Yes. On Watchlist Boosted it is tagged Funny, with a feel-good streak. A riotous and affectionately chaotic tribute to a man who turned professional failure into a celebrated art form. It is a hilarious underdog story that will appeal to fans of eccentric British humor and the grit of the music industry.
- How long is Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie?
- Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie runs 97 min and was released in 2013.
- Is Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie worth watching?
- Stream it: if you enjoy self-deprecating British eccentricity and stories of relentless, joyful persistence against all odds. TMDB users rate it 5.5 out of 10 from 2 votes.
More funny titles
Same mood, saved by people here. See all funny titles.
Poison (2023)
film · Funny · TMDB 6.8
A meticulously staged short that balances dry wit with a single, high-tension situation. It is an eccentric and visually precise piece for fans of Wes Anderson's signature style and quick-fire storytelling.
The House (2017)
film · Funny · TMDB 5.6
A broad, frantic comedy that leans heavily into the chemistry of its leads despite a thin and increasingly absurd premise. It offers reliable, low-brow laughs for viewers looking for mindless R-rated slapstick.
I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017)
film · Funny · TMDB 6.6
A quirky and violent genre-bender that mixes deadpan humor with a gritty amateur detective plot. It is erratic, stylish, and entertaining for those who enjoy dark indie comedies where everyday people get in way over their heads.
The Polka King (2017)
film · Funny · TMDB 5.6
A quirky, mid-tempo character study led by a high-energy performance from Jack Black. It balances the absurdity of a real-life scam with a slightly cynical view of the American Dream, making it more of a curious watch than a laugh-out-loud riot.
Ricky Gervais: Mortality (2025)
film · Funny · TMDB 7.0
A biting and unapologetic stand-up set that finds humor in the darkest corners of human existence. It is broad, provocative, and designed for those who enjoy Gervais's trademark brand of cynical, observational wit.
The Breaker Upperers (2018)
film · Funny · TMDB 5.2
A quirky, deadpan New Zealand comedy that thrives on the awkward and endearing chemistry of its two leads. It is a light, irreverent hangout movie for viewers who enjoy dry humor and offbeat friendship dynamics.