Sssmokin!!!

Rating: 10/10 (14 January 2004)

I don't like all of Jim Carrey's films because his madcap antics can be so over the top and annoying at times. But The Mask isn't like that. Its hilarious from beginning to end. The plot is fairly unoriginal, a loser comes out on top story, but Carrey's performance elevates the material to classic status.
Stanley Ipkiss is a meek banker who can't get anywhere. His love life is practically non-existent. His landlady has seriously got it in for him. Everybody takes advantage of him. And the worst part is, he just takes it.
One night, after a humiliating encounter with the love of his life Tina Carlyle (Cameron Diaz in her feature film debut) at the Coco Bongo nightclub, he happens to find a wooden mask in the river. When he puts it on, it transforms him into a completely different person.
The Mask as he comes to be named is obviously inspired by the Tex Avery cartoons, because he is like a human cartoon character. All his inhibitions are stripped away, and he can literally do anything he wants.
Jim Carrey is perfectly suited to this character, because The Mask is such a zany bundle of dynamic energy. He is so completely mischievous and has none of Stanley's ineptitudes. The mask gives Stanley the attention and fame he has always wanted.
There are many memorable scenes, made even more special because this film was one of the first to use CGI. The FX are dazzling, and really help bring the film to life. The Mask moves like a whirlwind, he has cartoon eyes that pop out on cue. His legs are as fast as the Road Runner. The delights are numerous.
One of the best scenes is The Mask's Cuban Pete act when he is in a tight spot with the cops (as The Mask he robs the bank he works in). It is a marvellous dance number that would not have looked out of place in a Bugs Bunny cartoon. Stanley has absolutely no control over what he does when he becomes The Mask, which is why it becomes more of a burden to him.
Eventually, the mask falls into the hands of Dorian Tyrel, a local mobster. But unfortunately, he has different ambitions than Stanley. When he puts the mask on, he becomes a monster. The mask gives him the power he has always craved, and will allow him to take over Edge City. Obviously, Stanley must prevent that from happening, so he gets to play hero without the mask.
Cameron Diaz is a very beautiful woman, and even in her film debut, she really proves she can hold her own. Any outfit looks good on her. She's quite charming. And she has a wonderful smile that quite lights up her entire face. I'm just glad she got the recognition she deserves.
Typically, the audience knows things will turn out well for Stanley in the end, but this is still an entertaining film. Apparently, there is going to be a sequel, but it won't star Jim Carrey because he hates to do them. I'm not sure when it comes out, but it should be interesting to look at. After The Truman Show, The Mask is Jim Carrey's best film.