Ari Matti Mustonen

One minute. One mic. No mercy. Tony Hinchcliffe and a panel of famous guests put up-and-coming comedians to the test at a relentless Austin showcase.

The reception for Finland's Independence Day is rudely interrupted when the presidential palace is attacked and the state leadership is taken hostage. Max Tanner of the Security Police is appointed as a negotiator in the hostage crisis, that unfolds as part of a bigger plan to undermine European security.

A bucket, a mic and one minute to win over Tony Hinchcliffe and a panel of famous guests. This is stand-up at its most unforgiving — and unpredictable.

With one minute to impress Tony Hinchcliffe and his star-studded panel, newbie stand-ups risk it all on the hallowed ground of Madison Square Garden.