With his entire season already sold out, and two extra shows being added to meet demand, it’s fair to say that word has got out about James Acaster. On the back of numerous awards and critical acclaim, there is a buzz of expectation in the San Fran on opening night. 

Reset is the name of Acaster’s latest show, with the question being asked: if you could push a button and restart your life, what would you do differently? It’s something which preys on everybody’s minds, and if your answer is “I wouldn’t change a thing” then hold on, as this self-deprecating Englishman has plenty to say on the matter.

Entering the stage without introduction, Acaster immediately turns on the charm offensive. Discussion about Tetris and a failed honey-selling scam instantly set the tone for the diverse creative stories which are about to follow. At one stage there is a segment about how wacky you are as a person, and this seems to reflect what James Acaster is all about. His comedic style is in part about finding the mundane and crafting a peculiar slant on it which you’ve never thought about before.

Observing audience interactions in the front row and weaving them into the show is done with such skill it looks almost effortless. Picking apart everyday phrases and unpacking the sounds and use of them is a notable highlight. 

For an international comedian, there are numerous perceptions on what New Zealand people are like and how they compare to the English which, at least from my experience, hit the mark. He loathes being English and the heavy burden post-colonial guilt bears upon him.

Yet this isn’t a show without flaws. There is a rambling and long-winded story towards the conclusion which never really goes anywhere, although there are some wonderful call-backs to tangents made earlier.  

The intricate structure of the hour and eloquent use of language combine to make this a show distinct from anything else in this festival. Endlessly inventive, I’d happily press the Reset button and watch an hour of Acaster doing stand-up anytime. 

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When I walked into the Classic on a cold Tuesday night to be greeted by a sign reading ‘James Acaster – Sold Out’, I knew this guy must be good. I mean, I already did – I’ve seen his ever-funny appearances on 7 Days, the NZ Comedy Gala and on numerous British comedy shows – but selling out on a Tuesday night in New Zealand? That’s pretty extraordinary. But after spending an hour watching his brand new show ‘RESET’, I can truly understand why he is so popular. Simply, because he is absolutely, unrelentingly hilarious.

After making his way to the stage through the audience, Acaster spends his hour on stage effortlessly weaving truthful observations with comical anecdotes. His comments on British tourists were particularly well-received, as were those on an everyday New Zealand expression which he managed to make hysterical. It is the ability to find humour in the mundane and ordinary which I think makes Acaster all the more entertaining to watch, making you think, laugh and question yourself all at once.

James Acaster has to be one of the best shows I have ever seen at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival. If he can sell out on a Tuesday night you might be hard pressed to find a ticket for any other, but fight to get your hands on one. This is stand-up comedy at its finest.

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