‘King of Comedy’ (starring Stephen Chow) is the first movie that made me laugh till I cried till I had stitches in my sides… many years ago. (For your information, the second is ‘Zoolander’, which starred Ben Stiller.) I watched the DVD version of the first to rediscover why it was so funny. Though the movie has some of the usual slapstick humour, there are quirky elements too, which made it really unique. The spoofs of classic movies within are hilarious too – enough to be classic short films in themselves. The soundtrack is interesting too, used in an apt way. (Check out http://youtube.com/watch?v=yf6dGKiXqbo&) After watching the movie carefully for its famous ‘snot scene’ (as above) and upon deeper reflection, here’s my analysis of why it’s funny…
It’s rip-roaringly comical because it juxtaposes dead seriousness and downright ridiculousness in the same place and time – two extreme opposites together. It’s like a tragicomedic moment really – a small onscreen miracle. (Best seen in the context of the whole movie on the big screen without knowing what to expect!) They say comedy is the hardest genre for actors because the timing must be impeccable. And the best comedians can say and do the darnest stuff with the straightest face. (I’m lousy at this. When I share jokes during talks, I’m usually the first to bend over laughing. Am tempted to attempt Dharma stand-up comedy – but I have to overcome this obstacle. Imagine serious Dharma with crazy jokes that drive the points home… wonderful! The most important lesson I learnt from the film was the power of dedication. The above scene, which seems impossible to act well without laughing aloud is an example of the actor’s dedication too.
‘King of Comedy’ is a story of a struggling ‘calefare’ (extra) – who is so dedicated to his art despite continual rejection for overacting, that his non-acting part of playing dead won the attention of the lead actress. Ironically, his best act up till then was ‘not acting’ at all. He had remained stationary, unflinching, despite being trampled upon due to the unexpected intrusion of a cockroach on the set. (Don’t mimic this scene!) He did not move as the director had yet to yell ‘Cut!’ It might seem like silly dedication, but it was dedication nonetheless – that worked out for him. The movie too was a showcase of Stephen Chow’s earlier days, and his dedication, that made him an actual ‘king of comedy’ to many Chinese movie-goers. Though made in 1997, I think it’s his best work yet. It is moving in a strange but heartfelt way too.
I like this movie as well as there is meaning found behind the laughter but was disappointed with his recent movie which attracted alot of expectations & anticipation. :bandit:
The style of humour changed, but there are still some good lessons i think. (But i did expect better too) Here’s a review of it: http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=12,5900,0,0,1,0
(&) < CJ8?