I was recently asked by a friend to think of one film that I would recommend to everyone. She thought to ask me this since I am a filmmaker, and, as such, I might have a good answer. The question became a wonderful thought experiment and a tall order. By my estimation, my choice would have to be both entertaining and a representation of what I believe a good film is. I came up with a short list of films right off the top of my head, but there is one that I kept going back to over and over again. That particular film had to fly through the following criteria:
- Does it have an engaging story and a satisfying ending?
Yes. It certainly does. From its opening scene and all the way through the end credits, the viewer will certainly be enthralled. This film is imaginative and does not hold back. - In terms of film craft, is it visually and technically well done or even masterful?
Yes. Virtually all of the elaborate sets were custom built and every sequence (including crazy action sequences) needed to be carefully choreographed in order to work. It took a massive army of a creative team to bring this film to life. I am humbled and in awe of what these filmmakers accomplished. - Does the film still hold up many years after its theatrical release?
Yes. It is still entertaining and, sadly, as relevant as it was when it was released. - Does the film embody different ideas and layers, as opposed to being shallow and one-dimensional?
Yes! In addition to being a brilliant satire of real life, it is an action movie, a theatrical musical (with the best songs EVER!), a romantic film, and a hysterical comedy. It takes every Hollywood cliche and turns each one up a notch. It’s basically a satire of everything, and it does not get more ambitious than that. - Does this film appeal to a large cross-section of people?
I would say it would appeal to any adult anywhere in the world. As a comedy and geopolitical satire of America, this film would have strong international appeal for anyone who looks at America with a critical eye. Anyone within the US could benefit from seeing a satire such as this. For them, this film is a mirror image of what America projects onto the world, for better or worse. It’s also incredibly funny and quite a sight to behold. However, I would strongly caution against young children watching this because of its adult content and language (even though they would be highly entertained by it otherwise.)
Well then, my choice checks all of the boxes. So, without further ado, here is the theatrical trailer for the film I would recommend to everyone:
Team America: World Police
Yes, this film uses puppets. Yes, it looks ridiculous, but you have to watch the whole thing to understand where I am coming from. The musical sequences and the songs (which are not mentioned in the trailer) are brilliant. (AMERICA! F__K YEAH!!!!)
I give mad props to directors Matt Stone and Trey Parker. They took every risk imaginable, and it all paid off.
Honestly, I can’t believe this is my choice, but I keep going to back to it in my head.
If you haven’t seen this film, I highly recommend watching the extended and uncensored version. (It has a lengthy sex scene that will leave you ROFL and LOL’ing for sure, among many other tidbits.)
So, based on the criteria listed above, what is one film that you would recommend to everyone? Leave a comment here or on the Facebook to let me know.
Thanks for reading, and please, grab some popcorn. Gather up a few friends and watch “Team America: World Police.”
You will certainly be entertained, if nothing else.
