Adelaide Fringe

Fringe Review: Amos Gill: Ruins

The Adelaide-born radio host turned stand-up comedian is back with a brand-new show, and he’s feeling nihilistic.

3.5

Presented by MoreTalent

Reviewed 18 February 2020

Amos Gill is not happy with the state of the world, and he’s not alone.

The Adelaide-born radio host turned stand-up comedian is back with a brand-new show, and he’s feeling nihilistic (he’s also finished his law degree).

Well-versed in Fringe comedy, Gill is once again playing the Rhino Room, and there’s enough of a crowd to warrant extra chairs. 

Gill’s new material is inspired by the current state of the world and, in his view, the unavoidable imploding of society as we know it. It’s miserable, Gill agrees, but what else can we do if not make fun of it, and us?

With the assistance of a slideshow, Gill presents a laugh-out-loud comparison of our society to the ones that came before us. Are we any more self-obsessed, any more self-destructive, any more addicted to instant gratification? What’s happening with climate action (or the lack thereof), and what will 2040 bring?

Gill is self-deprecating and charismatic, and for the most part, the jokes hit. He’s experienced enough to sense when the material isn’t working, and more often than not, witty enough to rein the audience back in. Comedians are no strangers to controversy, and at times, Gill probably does venture a little too far over the line, albeit boldly.

When this line is crossed, the content lacks sensitivity, and although Gill generally comes across as self-aware enough to keep the crowd on side, the easily offended may wish to look elsewhere.

Reviewed by Lucy Brewer

Rating out of 5: 3.5 stars

Venue: Rhino Room
Season: Until 13 March 2020
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $20 – $34.90
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/amos-gill-ruins-af2020

More News

To Top