Buddy Young (Billy Crystal) is a Jewish stand-up comedian who specialized in negative jokes. He has very little luck with his friends and family members, and at times this is his own fault. His brother, Stan (David Paymer), often picks on him, but the truth is that he wishes he could be as strong as Buddy is and feels very insecure. He also happens to be his brother’s agent, and can feel like a celebrity only because of Buddy’s success. They used to perform together when they were kids, but only one became successful on stage. The brothers both hurt and help each other over the many years.