comedy

Last weekend I went to see the movie "The Other Guys" with my parents and brothers. We lasted about 45 minutes before walking out and it has caused me to think a lot about comedy and the state of our country/world. I hope you all haven't seen it, and I won't repeat any of the jokes or quotes from the movie here, but I think most people know the basic point or have seen a similar movie. {Think "Talladega Nights"} I found everything about this movie incredibly offensive, and just sad really. Do being mean to people, swearing every other word and disrespecting women actually constitute good comedy these days? I don't find that funny at all. I was actually shocked by all the people in our theatre who laughed so hard. Can we really be in a good place when this is what we find funny? We should be bothered by these things, like the way the men talk to each other, the language they use, and the awful way Will Ferrell treats his wife in the movie. I think it's interesting to note that Ferrell's character seems to be pretty nice to everyone, except his wife. The whole thing was disgusting and, frankly, disappointing. I think I have a pretty good sense of humor, but the "jokes" in this movie were uncalled for. When I see this movie getting overall positive reviews I don't know what to think. I think there is a place for teasing and joking, but there's a line of what is appropriate. It doesn't take much creativity or talent to make jokes like those in this movie, and, beyond being offensive, I thought they were just plain stupid.

I realize that "The Other Guys" is comedy, satire, a spoof- not meant to depict real-life, and I don't want to overestimate the influence of one movie on the way people behave; but what are we teaching teenagers with things like this? Sadly, this movie shows behavior that can be seen in a lot of entertainment these days and that has me concerned. People aren't bothered by it, but they darn well should be. I suggest we make more attempts at smart comedy, and perhaps we could show some respect and decency in the way we treat others, even if it's just in silly movies, because if we accept these things in entertainment I wonder how often or long it will be until we accept them in everyday life.