Movie Review: Bruno - Page 2

I am really at a loss about what to say about the movie. To describe more of the sequences would deprive them of their shock value. The story is pretty much non-existent, existing only to string together the awkward situations and add even more zaniness.

While I did laugh out loud a number of times, I found that much of my laughter was of the nervous variety. It is not that I was offended, but what Cohen was doing was so over the top that I was shocked more than amused. In the end, the movie does what it sets out to do, generate laughs, pick at the dark side of the audience by making them complicit in the generation of humor, and just being shocking.

Sacha Baron Cohen is an interesting character. On one hand, he truly pushes the boundaries of good taste and is absolutely fearless in his pursuit of the laugh, especially if it exposes some undesirable element on the part of the target. However, as brave as he is in going for the gusto, does his brand of comedy have an expiration date? How much longer will he be able to go unrecognized? I suspect this will be the last round for this sort of Cohen film. Unless he brings on a protege, I suspect we will begin to see more roles like his performance in Talladega Nights.

Bottomline. Bruno is not for everyone, although I think everyone should make the attempt. It will make you uncomfortable, it will make you laugh, it will make you wonder if Cohen has a mental issue. It will also make your jaw drop seeing the reactions and responses that he gets throughout. It is a bizarre film made by a brave soul. Try it. You may like it.... or not.

Recommended.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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