Friday night we rented and watched “The Producers” with Matthew Broderick (Bloom) and Nathan Lane (Bialystok) (among many other stars). It’s really funny, though half the time I wasn’t sure I should be laughing. I felt the same when I first saw “Bruce Almighty” but after getting past what seems like blatant disrespect and bad-taste, you can actually find something good. In “Bruce Almighty”, he realizes his mistake and doesn’t take life, gifts, and talents for granted. Here, they serve their time and by then end, what they intended as a scam gets put to good use, poking fun and making real Broadway musicals into spoofs. I’ve seen part of it now twice and while it’s still funny I’m not happy with parts of it, like the deception and innuendo of Bialystok to get money from old ladies, and the “if you’ve got it flaunt it” attitude of Ulla. I did however enjoy her “Swedishness”.
I looked up a review at ChristianityToday.org. The writer seemed to really enjoy the movie. The “Family Corner” informs readers of the sexuality, gay humor, and language, etc. There are thoughtful questions following the review.
Talk About It Discussion starters
1. This film includes “sexual humor.” Is such innuendo as “bad” as explicit sex and bad language? Is one worse than the other?
I get so sick of sexual jokes and innuendo. Sex is a natural part of life (though often difficult to discuss) and is supposed to be a sacred part of marriage to be cherished and protected.
2. Where do Bialystock and Bloom go wrong (or “right”) in their scheme? What could they have done differently to ensure their success (or “failure”)?
If going “right” is making the show a success, then it was probably [indirectly] casting the flambouyant director as Hitler. Instead of extolling his virtues as intended by Will Ferrell’s character, Hitler could be ridiculed. Hitler is certainly no joke but I guess it did allow the audience to hold their negative feelings for him. Kind of like this movie, funny, though not sure you should laugh. “That’s terrible! hehehe…” If Ferrell’s character had given his serious portrayal of Hitler, the audience would have walked out.
3. Based on this film’s ending, do you feel it promotes bad behavior? Or is there still a lesson to be learned? Or is it simply all intended as fun?
Bialystock and Bloom both went to prison (Bloom basically turned himself in) but did they really repent, admit the mistake and choose to live a honest life? They honestly made spoofs…. I don’t think it really promotes anything, “a good romp” some might call it.
4. Do you agree Bloom’s comments at the trial? Is everyone happy and content with what happened, or was someone wronged in the process?
Bialystok basically took advantage of people for his gain but Bloom got his chance to produce.
I’m looking forward to having our own place with *all* our stuff together within easy reach.
We’re taking a day-trip to Annmarie Garden in Solomons Maryland and then will share dinner at California Pizza Kitchen.
