If a picture tells a thousand words, than an interview with a stand-up tells exactly 330 words (thank you, Microsoft Office technology). Fahim Anwar will be featured on this Sunday's episode of Russell Simmons Presents Stand-Up at The El Rey, August 1 at 11pm / 10c, hosted by JB Smoove. He answered our questions involving aerospace engineering, worst gigs and the things he finds highly inappropriate. For those of you keeping track at home, this intro used 79 words.
Russell Simmons is a mogul (author, yogi, producer, philanthropist, hip hop pioneer) — which of his projects is your favorite?
I'd have to say producer seeing how his television special is the only reason I'm getting to talk to you. Yogi comes a close second.
Describe JB Smoove in three words.
Ridiculous, Committed, Funny.
Any stories about shooting the show at The El Rey?
DJ Cassidy had a seemingly endless supply of Adidas jumpsuits every time I saw him.
Describe the worst club you ever performed in.
Pretty much any bar gig. One time a show was postponed until the Lakers game was over. They lost, the TVs were shut off and then I was required to perform comedy for an agitated, inebriated crowd, all over the murmur of a Golden Tee arcade machine.
The El Rey is a beautiful theater. What do the bathrooms look like?
I unfortunately did not have to go when I was there. If ever the opportunity arises again I will be sure to plan ahead with laxatives.
If you could request DJ Cassidy to play one song, which song would it be?
Daft Punk – "Face to Face"
What would be the title of your biography?
"Resting My Chin on My Clasped Hands." It would go well with the cover photo.
Who should play you in the movie about your life?
Jason Statham. Liberties will be taken but it'll be BASED on a true story.
What's the most inappropriate thing that makes you laugh?
Anything that is so awful that it obviously has to be a joke — like anything regarding the welfare of small children or babies. It's only inappropriate if it's not funny.
If you were a scientist and could create a super funny mutant — what three comedians' DNA would you use?
Louis C.K., Andy Kindler, Eddie Murphy.
If you weren't a comedian, what would you be doing?
Aerospace engineering…because that's what I was doing. Please don't make me go back.