Blog #6

Manohla Dargis from The New York Times, in her review "Once More to the Well of Goofball Comedy", offered a negative review of the film Step-Brothers. Basically, the movie is about two over grown adults in their early 40s becoming stepbrothers. While they both act like they're kindergarteners, they soon realize they have a lot in common. Actually, there is a reason as to why they both act like children. I wont say too much for those who haven't seen the movie yet, which I hope you will if you ever need a good laugh. I researched well enough to see as to why she thinks of  Step-Brothers so negatively, it all came down to three supportive quotes. The following quotes represents her thesis as to why she disagrees, "Step-Brothers is nowhere near as good, funny or polished as Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Rickey Bobby". Another quote, "The idea of two men of around 40 still living with their folks and addicted to nominally juvenile pursuits seems like grist for the comedy mill or a newspaper trend piece". Finally, the final quote, "In Step-Brothers, Brennan and Dale almost bring down the house by clinging to a delayed adolescence that makes them seem angry rather than playful and joyous. Unfortunately, I disagree with her thesis. I believe this movie is a good, comedic, and hysterical movie. In my opinion, I believe Step-Brothers is entirely more hilarious than, Talladega Nights. Both movies are funny as well, I just so happen to find Step-Brothers more funnier. The way they act in the movie, from their childish moments and tantrums, to when they finally get a reality check and start acting their ages. As for the second quote, I do see exactly what she means. She says they're too old to be addicted to juvenile pursuits. I still have a negative comment on behalf of the statement as well.Obviously, both characters are fictional, and the movie is a comedy so there are going to be some sort of immaturity towards it. Finally, in the last quote she explains how both characters almost destroys their house by somehow "hanging" on to their childhood lives, which I must say I can agree with. Yes, they do get out of hand at times in the movie, act as if they are 7 years old even. From the arguments with each other and majority of characters throughout the movie to whatever else ticks them off. But, as I commented in the second quote, its all comedy so it will not be taken seriously. Honestly, Manohla seems to take humor too seriously or even doesn't tolerate childishness at all. In all honesty, Talladega Nights has some immaturity as well. Both movies have the same main characters, and they also deal with similar subjects as well. Everyone has their own opinion about things, I just don't see how you could think negatively of a comedy movie. I do respect her opinion on it, I just don't agree with it.