A sorely underrated movie showcasing the best of Jim Carrey's acting abilities.

Rating: 8/10 (5 November 2016)

Jim Carrey had a reputation of showcasing his rubbery face and goofy personality which endeared himself to many audiences. Although very popular throughout his career, others found him to be one dimensional and it was another case of asking "Can Jim Carrey do anything else?" While The Truman Show (1998) was the start of Jim Carrey proving he can branch out, I felt his role as the ill-fated Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon suited him perfectly to the ground. Although the movie netted a lot of critical acclaim as well as a well deserved Golden Globe for Jim Carrey, sadly it was quite an underrated movie which flopped at the box office.
Man on the Moon squarely focuses on the biography of legendary comedian Andy Kaufman (Jim Carrey) right up to his untimely death in 1984 at aged 35 from lung cancer. The movie explores his early days through childhood and showcasing his comedic talents in comedy clubs and television appearances, including his memorable appearances on Saturday Night Live (which saw him banned), Late Night with David Letterman, Fridays, and his role in the popular TV show Taxi. There is special mention of the inside jokes and scams including his long-running feud with wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler and his portrayal of the bawdy lounge singer Tony Clifton. Kaufman's personal life is also explored including his romantic relationship with Lynne Margulies (Courtney Love in a good role), and his friendships with Tony Shaprio (Danny DeVito) and creative partner Bob Zmunda (Paul Giamatti).
Jim Carrey was a real pleasure to watch as Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon and I'm sorry that the movie was not a hit in 1999. Director Milos Forman (One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest, The People vs Larry Flynt) proves he is still a quality director with Man on the Moon by bringing out the best of Jim Carrey.
Sorely underrated, Man on the Moon is a quality movie showcasing that Jim Carrey can, in fact, act is not just a pretty (rubbery) face.
8/10.