It is quite possible for the vulgar to be funny, but to succeed, it must rise to a certain genius.

In this quote, Roger Ebert suggests that while vulgarity can be funny, it requires a level of genius to truly succeed in comedy. He acknowledges that humor that relies on crude or lowbrow content can have an impact, but for it to be truly effective and memorable, it needs to be elevated by a certain level of creativity, wit, or artistry. Ebert implies that vulgar humor alone is not enough; it must be thoughtfully crafted or delivered in a way that transforms it into something more than just cheap or offensive.

Ebert’s statement speaks to the complexity of comedy, where vulgarity is not inherently bad but must be used in a way that adds value to the comedic experience. To "rise to a certain genius," the humor must go beyond shock value or crude jokes and connect with the audience on a deeper, more intellectual level. This might involve clever wordplay, timing, or social commentary, making the vulgarity feel purposeful rather than gratuitous.

The origin of this quote stems from Ebert's film criticism, where he often analyzed how films used humor, including more crude or edgy forms, to engage audiences. As a critic, he understood that while some films or performances might lean on vulgar humor, the ones that stood out were those that integrated it into a more complex and refined context. Ebert’s deep understanding of film allowed him to appreciate when vulgarity was done well and when it fell flat.

Ultimately, this quote reflects Ebert’s view that comedy is an art form, and like any art, it requires skill and intentionality. Vulgar humor, if not executed with a certain level of craftsmanship, can easily become tiresome or offensive. However, when done with genius, it can transcend its base nature and resonate with audiences in a more meaningful way. Ebert’s words remind us that comedy, even in its most irreverent forms, can be elevated by intelligence and insight.