“Wait, the campaign?” you say. “That has nothing to do with science fiction, fantasy, video games, comics, or anything else even remotely nerdy. What gives?”
Well, you’re right. It doesn’t. But nerds like a good laugh just as much anyone else, right? So sit down, shut up, and enjoy the ride. (And please don’t hate me, hate us, or unfollow us for that statement. I love you.)
So, this past weekend – along with the nerdier Total Recall and more action packed Bourne Legacy – I went to see the Campaign. Featuring Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis doing what they do best, the Campaign was a surprisingly funny little jaunt through satirized American politics. Let’s be real. I wasn’t expecting much. While I like Will Ferrell to an extent I feel like most of his movies toe the line between so-outrageous-its-funny and well-okay-that’s-a-bit-too-far. Same with Zach Galifianakis and, well, probably comedies in general these days.
But the Campaign was much more Ricky Bobby than, I don’t know, Scary Movie-esque potty humor. The plot was fun, there were some actually rather touching moments, and Dylan MacDermott was (possibly unintentionally) one of the best parts of the entire movie. Or maybe I just thought so.
Right. The basic plot of the Campaign is that long-term Congressional representative Cam Brady (Ferrell) makes a few political mistakes and finds himself suddenly challenged by a straw man candidate – Galifianakis’ horribly awkward Tickleshits Marty Huggins – fronted by corrupt, big business tycoons. The antics come to play as Marty’s life is turned upside down in order to make him a semi-respectable candidate and the two candidates find themselves wrapped up in a childish, destructive battle of dirty politics. And, of course, dirty minds in general. There are some really great gags, a lot of fun in general (for audience, at least, if not the characters), and it remains a lot more tasteful than most movies these guys have been in.
Also, as a pseudo-Southerner myself, I have to not just how awesome a nickname ‘Camouflage’ and ‘Camo’ are for Cam Brady’s son Cam, Jr.
That said, the Campaign is definitely a movie that you’re going to want to see. Especially if you’re a Will Ferrell or Zach Galifianakis fan. It might not be worth a $10 movie ticket – unless you really just need some mind-numbing fun – but a $3 ticket at your local discount movie theatre or a $1 Redbox rental in six months? Certainly.
Final Grade: B
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7yC0iiK7a4&w=560&h=315]
Featured Image courtesy of Vogue.
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