This film is an absolute train-wreck in the best possible way.
I long for this bygone genre of filmmaking where there doesn't need to be a point to be made or a moral to be put on a pedastel.
A film that simply says, "Let's be INSANE!! Won't you join us?"
Ben Stiller is an absolute comedic MEGASTAR and has contributed to this genre and the entertainment industry in a way that cannot be understated.
Throughout the movie, I found myself falling for and laughing out loud at the completely immature and self-aware ridiculousness of an air pump, a team mantra, and a very simple plotline.
I hear the argument of "oh, this couldn't be made, today" and while I agree that this film shot for shot would struggle to be made today, I do believe there is room for culturally aware films that are simple mind-off, sit back and giggle like a teenager romps.
The writing in this film is atrocious and I can say with utmost certainty that that was the point.
The sense of ownership is never lost on me as a viewer and I found myself not dwelling on a scene for longer than about 5 seconds.
How special is that?
To just consume a thing without feeling the need to turn it into a self-important narrative on the futility of life and the perceived hopelessness of the world we live in.
DODGEBALL made me laugh from start to finish and sometimes that is exactly what we need from a film.
Vince Vaughn and Ben Still anchor a consistently immersed cast that help craft a sense of indelible ownership and ridiculousness, bringing this film squarely into the pantheon of ridiculous movies that make us cringe and giggle at things we normally wouldn't.
If I ever consider quitting something again, (although it has aged rather poorly), that Lance Armstrong Cameo will be on loop.
Do yourself a favor and watch/rewatch this classic as a firm reminder to take life by the ball.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Qavah John.
#review #film #art #comedy #benstiller #vincevaughn #actor #dreamer #immigrant #focus #reps #create #content
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