A sociologist and improv comedian, filmmaker Nate Dern follows five aspiring comedians hoping to make it onto a house team at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. Since its founding in 1998, the UCB Theatre has become a training ground for the country's next generation of comedic talent. This film explores the motivations and dreams of five comedy hopefuls, while providing an insider's look into the exclusive New York City improv comedy community. The filmmaker's own journey through the UCB system - from student to performer to teacher to artistic director of the theatre - is woven throughout the film. This film takes a serious look at improv comedy.