I thought 'Borat' was a breakthrough comedy, because it was really funny. It wasn't some studio-produced script with 14 writers.

Steve Martin’s quote praises the film Borat for its innovative approach to comedy, calling it a breakthrough because of its genuineness and raw humor. Martin contrasts Borat with more traditional, studio-produced comedies, which often involve multiple writers and highly structured scripts. He points out that what made Borat stand out was its spontaneity and the way it relied on improvisation and authentic interactions rather than a polished, formulaic script. This emphasis on unscripted moments and the unexpected made it feel fresh and groundbreaking in the world of comedy.

The mention of a studio-produced script with 14 writers highlights Martin’s belief that many mainstream comedies rely too heavily on corporate structures, often losing their authenticity in the process. In contrast, Borat represented a more organic approach to filmmaking, one that prioritized creativity and real-time reactions over polished lines and formulaic humor. Martin admires this unconventional style, as it allowed the film to have a more immediate, unfiltered comedic impact.

The quote also reveals Martin’s respect for comedy that feels less contrived and more daring. By highlighting Borat's success, he champions a type of humor that takes risks and pushes boundaries, rather than relying on the safe, predictable formulas often found in Hollywood. For Martin, this kind of innovation in comedy is what makes Borat a standout film in the genre.

Originating from Martin's experiences as a comedian and writer, the quote reflects his deep understanding of the comedy industry and how it has evolved. As someone who has worked in both traditional and experimental comedy, Martin sees Borat as an example of how humor can break free from the constraints of commercial filmmaking, opening the door for more unique, bold forms of entertainment.