SCARY MOVIE
A Dimension Films release

review by Joseph B. Mauceri

SYNOPSIS: Setups and gags set up to spoof the "Scream" trilogy fizzle out as other film references, such as "Blair Witch," "Urban Legend" and "The Matrix," weight down this cumbersome attempt at satire.

REVIEW: The irony begins with the title. Kevin Williamson's original title for "Scream" was in fact SCARY MOVIE. This brain child of the two younger Wayans brothers, SCARY MOVIE proves that they lack the comedic talent their older brothers Keenen and Damon possess. With big brother Keenen in the director's chair, it is painfully obvious that some of the films few genuinely laughable moments are more a result of the directing then writing.

Spoofs are a fragile thing. When you look at the films of Mel Brooks, his most recent attempts lack the punch and wit that his earlier works, such as "Young Frankenstein," "Blazing Saddles" and "Silent Movie," do. I mean "Dracula: Dead and Loving It" is nowhere near as effective as "Young Frankenstein." A friend of mine suggested that my problem with the film was that it is "a black thing." Then how do you explain my feelings that "I'm Gonna Get You Sucka" is a classic?

The problem with SCARY MOVIE is literally overkill, and timing. Some of the gags go on and on, trying to cram in as much as they can. I can understand how it is appropriate to parody the opening sequence to "Scream," but the editing is too self serving. The scene goes on for too long and lacks the impact it could. The film is also weighed down in sexual innuendoes and drug references that come across as gratuitous.

SCARY MOVIE is a mess. There is a lack of cohesiveness in the plot, which can be expected from a screenplay that bears the names of six writers. The talent is cast more for their body types then their skills as comedy actors. The entire setup crumbles because you feel that the cast is privy to some joke that they never share with the audience, or a setup that never materializes. The sexual humor is a far cry from the abilities of the Farrelly brothers. It's a one trick pony that losses its appeal real fast. Simply put, SCARY MOVIE is so bad it is scary.

OFFICIAL WEB SITE:
http://www.scarymovie.com

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