Topical Thunder

So I'm sure it's a bit late for a review, but I've finally seen Tropic Thunder, and I thought I would weigh in. If I had to sum up my thoughts about this film in one sentence, it would be "take it for what it's worth." As far as movies that take aim at the film industry, Thunder is certainly not the best. If you're looking for a multi-layered, concise, and intelligent jab, don't expect this movie to answer your prayers (if you are looking for that type of movie, check out The Player). 

That being said, Tropic Thunder is still a pretty good flick. For what it intends to do, it succeeds. It is certainly inane, obscene and sophomoric at times, but that's the point of the movie. Certain people have declared that this movie is a must-see for film buffs, and it's my contention that they slightly overestimate the depth of this movie. Yes, it pokes fun at the absurdities of Hollywood, but there's little subtlety here, it's almost exclusively an explicit experience. 

I can't review this movie without mentioning its saving grace...Robert Downey Junior. The man's dedication to any role that he takes on is almost scary. Say what you will about his penchant for illicit substances, but the guy commits to any role he takes on. I can't believe I'm about to write this, but he actually is convincing as a character actor who is so focused that he actually convinces himself that he is black!

As far as the directing goes, Ben Stiller doesn't do too bad of a job. He's certainly been around movies long enough, and payed a measurable amount of attention to what exactly he needs to do. He certainly did nothing spectacular, but at the same time, he doesn't take an interesting idea and ruin it *cough*cough* Michael Bay. The scope of the setting is impressive, and Stiller certainly does a good job emphasizing the contrast between the jaded actors and the (pun intended) jade jungle.

So, onto the verdict. If you go into this film expecting to be enlightened to the innerworkings of Hollywood and subjected to biting social commentary, you're going to be disappointed. If you go into this film expecting to utterly hate it, just waiting to bash it on your own blogs when you get home, you may be a bit surprised. Your best bet for this one is to buy your ticket having conceded that you're going to laugh at mostly dumb humor, and you're going to likely pee yourself in response to either Robert Downey Junor's character, or the now common-knowledge cameo of Tom Cruise. If you heed my advice, you'll come away at least moderately impressed with what the filmmakers were allowed to get away with. 

-Lance? Who's Lance?