Jim Carrey is set loose, and the result is typically funny

Rating: 8/10 (13 May 2020)

'The Mask' is a fantasy comedy overloaded with energetic fun and Looney Tunes-esque visuals, with a role made for Jim Carrey.
He plays nice guy Stanley Ipkiss: too pleasant and good-natured to stand up to the bullies of his life. That is, until he acquires a mysterious, ancient mask that, when worn, allows him to transform into the mischievous title character. Moonlighting as this disarmingly smart hoodlum, he his able to get his own back on those who've wronged him, while getting into all kinds of trouble with petty criminals and trying to woo love interest Cameron Diaz.
'The Mask' is perfect for Carrey's talent of manic unpredictability. He's in his element when permitted to go over-the-top, and the laughs come easy - a rare gift indeed. And the film comes to life with its imaginative cartoon violence and slapstick antics, with the green-faced anti-hero changing costume at will and pulling all kinds of outlandish stunts with amusing success.
With the help of his cute canine Milo, Ipkiss gets to save the day, and thanks to a fun tone, creative visuals, and an excellent central performance from Jim Carrey, 'The Mask' is a riotous piece of family entertainment.
8/10