This film is sort of like the Pink Flamingos of hetetonormative romantic comedies: repulsive and endearing in equal measures, with two protagonists who would certainly be bad guys if they weren’t surrounded by such a reprehensible group of WASPs, homosexuals, and whatever Will Ferrell is. The film is fascinatingly bizarre for its range of puritanical and offensive impulses, but thanks to the right mix of irony and sincerity from Vaughn and Wilson, the film mostly succeeds in having it both ways. Our heroes are allowed to be both awful and good-natured with impunity. Isn’t that what everybody wants?
by Leo Goldsmith | Source: New Line 35mm print
02 Aug 2005 12:31 PM | Comments (1)
Not so sure that I’d consider the homosexual in this film to be reprehensible, just slightly disturbed and inappropriate. The character is kind of an offensive stereotypical representation of the gay-artist (without the skill, based on that weak-ass portrait of Vaughn), but the film redeems itself by having Vaughn’s character remain understanding and forgiving of his actions.
In all honesty, sometimes these types of films are an “all or nothing” situation in terms of comedy. Luckily, as Leo mentioned, this one succeeds based on the abilities of Vaughn and Wilson.
Jit
3 August 2005
8:00 AM