a most triumphant comedy

Rating: 9/10 (26 May 2008)

Alex Winter (The Lost boys) and Keanu Reeves (Dangerous Liaisons) star as Bill and Ted, two teenagers in danger of failing their history class. A man from the future comes from the future to give them good news. He gives them a time machine where they can travel through time to collect historical figures for their report.
This Stephen Herek (101 Dalmatians) picture is the true catalyst of comedy, with excellent physical humour and sharp witty dialogue with ace brilliant catch phrases from the two central protagonists. Beautifully directed, this 1989 fantasy comedy is brilliant in justifying the genre, making a wonderful light hearted film.
Winter and Reeves make a great on screen partnership with their timing, catchphrases, facial reactions and companionship making them one of the best male comedy partnerships over the last twenty years. Using typical teenage conventions such as stupidity and slang, we can relate to the characters and their motives and, though stereotypical, are fun to watch.
The plot is "most excellent" with a very consistent baseline, sharp dialogue, great direction, action sequences and visual effects. Jumping through all different times, the film makes great use of settings and jumps on opportunities to capture the essence of each time well and from the comedy perspective, it is used brilliantly.
The use of historical figures is also a great device to gain acceptance into the comedy genre with Billy the Kid, Socrates, Beethoven and Genghis Kahn the most interesting and funny, though none will match Napoleon who was by far the funniest character of the entire film, especially the bowling scene which will get you in stitches.
It is most simply, most excellent and you must watch it dudes!