Never go full retard

Rating: 8/10 (6 October 2013)

Let me begin by saying that I'm usually not the greatest fan of Robert Downey jr. and Jack Black and never really cared much about Stiller either. Of course I knew that Downey was nominated for an Oscar for this one, but my expectations really weren't too high. Which definitely proved a great approach as I was completely surprised by how funny it all was. Of course, it's politically incorrect (drug addicts, gays, blacks, mentally disabled all get their fair share) all the time, but that was the basis for some of the best jokes this film delivered. Having grown into quite a fan of Steve Coogan recently, the first 25 minutes or so were the highlight for me. It went a bit down afterward, but was still really good. If it had stayed that way till the end, I may have given a rare perfect score even. Most of the supporting cast gave pretty decent performances as well, most of all Tom Cruise as a ruthless TV magnate or Nick Nolte and Bill Hader who made the most of the little he had to work with. Admittedly I'm not so sure how Cruise's performance holds up on rewatch as it was really more shock value than brilliant acting, but nonetheless his attention to detail created quite an iconic character.
I usually like motion pictures that can be described as "film on film" and if they have so many spoof references about famous movies, it can make for a damn fine watch. My favorites were for example the scene very early about the "death" of Stiller's character and Downey is right above him mourning. Completely hilarious. Another highlight were Jack Black's werewolf references, especially when he's tied and all the stuff he says to get somebody to free him and, last but not least, Stiller as Simple Jack. Okay, the final scene at the Oscars could have been funnier, but at least they got a nice cameo out of Jon Voight.
I would disagree with the Academy Awards that Downey was the big standout from the film and the only aspect worthy of a nomination. It was an incredibly smart and, on many occasions, hilarious screenplay and included an ensemble cast performance that did it justice. Very much recommended and easily one of the best comedies, if not films, from 2008.