Tropic Thunder

Similar in product to the recent “Pineapple Express” this Ben Stiller directed picture combines seemingly opposite elements being overt violence and outrageous comedy all in one box titled “Tropic Thunder”. If you even so much as attempt to take this film seriously, chances are you’re going to have a miserable time. Poking fun at the film industry in general, whether it’s A-list actors with big egos or producers having only one concern being to make money and lots of it, though blatantly silly it’s a true representation of what goes on behind the cameras.

It’s a joy to watch a group of talented actors making utter fools of themselves while at the same time, showing tremendous dedication and absolute heart for their work. As if “Tropic Thunder” doesn’t have enough side-splitting humor on its own, we’re given the pleasure of witnessing a cast and crew who are having just as much fun as we are. While it may not look it, the actors have undergone challenging preparation for their dynamic roles. We’ve certainly come to expect nothing less from Jack Black and Ben Stiller as going completely ballistic with their roles, Robert Downey Jr. definitely gives his fellow cast mates a run for the spotlight. Not only are the makeup effects that transform him into an African American man spectacular, but Downey Jr. goes full force in giving his character the appropriate accent and personality. Another great addition as far as the cast is concerned is a cameo by an actor who’s face you most likely won’t recognize until seeing his name in the end credits.

Taking into consideration just how ridiculous “Tropic Thunder” is, the story-line is surprisingly compelling and never once fails to entertain. Had the script intentionally been written to make no sense whatsoever, the film would have worked because every aspect of the film is entirely non-sense, but it works on a grand level.

My biggest complaint is the profanity. At times, certain dialogue containing the most familiar of curse words seem forced and take away a great amount of credibility from the actors uttering the phrases. The film is graphic enough in its violent nature thus there’s nothing holding it back from an R-rating. For this reason alone, the fowl language is irrelevant and the one-liners would have been just as effective without the potty words thrown into the mix.

Overall, "Tropic Thunder" is an outrageous comedy with hysterical one liners and diverse content that will please fans of multiple genres. Aside from the overly used potty humor, this is definitely a must see!