By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 1 cat
Director: Larry Charles
Starring: Aaron Jackson | Bowen Yang | Josh Sharp | Megan Mullally | Nathan Lane
Year: 2023
Running time: 86
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7130916/reference/
Brett says: “The title DICKS: THE MUSICAL may actually be the least profanity-laced part of this film. That alone might be the benchmark by which a person could determine whether the film is to one’s liking or not. The film partially serves as a biting satire at masculinity, brought to the screen from writers Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp, who are also the lead actors. However, the film regularly steers far out of this lane to mud wrestle in absurdity and shock cinema.
“Originally a two-person comedy cellar play, this adaptation features a trio of supporting stars alongside Jackson and Sharp: Nathan Lane, Megan Mullally, and Megan Thee Stallion. Seeing Nathan Lane in particular in this film was somewhat disheartening, considering that a fair chunk of his body of work is arguably more superior and culturally significant than this particular role. Despite taking plenty of chances in films with little to no acclaim, in short, it just feels like he deserves better at this stage in his career.
“The musical composition is on point for the most part, at least in the first half. Even the lyrics show glimmers of cleverness in the first couple of musical numbers. However, small halo moments that show some potential are not enough to save this one. The performances devolve into constant ‘shout-acting,’ never giving jokes enough room to breathe, not to mention just making audience members wonder why they’re being yelled at the whole time.
“A fairly consistent criticism is bound to be the over-the-top characterization of Megan Mullally’s Evelyn. On the mountain of cringe comedy piled in the film, perhaps this is its peak.
“Megan Thee Stallion brings an infectious charisma that will appeal to her fanbase and no doubt spark some of the praise for the film. But again, the cess pool of constant shouting in the movie never really allows her character to shine like it should because when it’s her turn, everyone else has sucked all the oxygen out of the room already.
“Comparisons to SOUTH PARK: BIGGER, LONGER, AND UNCUT or TEAM AMERICA: WORLD POLICE are likely to be made due to the major studio production value behind this level of shock value. Overall, however, there are far more misses than hits. Even when a joke seems to land, the constant callbacks or repetition of the gag often takes away from the initial effect. Still, the film does possess a certain quality that makes it feel like it could make an impact upon release, get lost in time, resurface years later, and become a cult classic based on the ‘so bad it’s good’ factor. It wouldn’t be the first time. 1 cat out of 5“