An exceptional piece, by far the best thing I've read on this film. Let me add this, anecdotally, and in no way diminishing the main thrust of the essay: I had a great friend, sadly passed now, who was an A-list television comedy writer. One day he was sitting in my living room, lost in thought. His chin was balanced on his fists, and he seemed to be almost in a fugue state. (This is all absolutely true.) Finally, after about four silent minutes, he raised his head and announced, with enormous gravity, "When you put a chimp in human clothing, it's ALWAYS funny."
An exceptional piece, by far the best thing I've read on this film. Let me add this, anecdotally, and in no way diminishing the main thrust of the essay: I had a great friend, sadly passed now, who was an A-list television comedy writer. One day he was sitting in my living room, lost in thought. His chin was balanced on his fists, and he seemed to be almost in a fugue state. (This is all absolutely true.) Finally, after about four silent minutes, he raised his head and announced, with enormous gravity, "When you put a chimp in human clothing, it's ALWAYS funny."
Oh that’s a really lovely review. I haven’t seen the movie. (I did see stereophonic which was utterly forgettable.)
I love this review, and I’m right there with you. Excellent piece!