Posted by Jim Shady at h-64-236-224-52.twi.com on September 20, 2001 at 07:09:52:
Okay, it's not a review as such. There have been plenty of those already, and I don't want to start delving into the plot. This is purely from a very lucky fan's perspective (ie mine).
Before the actual screening itself, we were given a little talk by someone from the promotions company about how well the film had done in the US, and how they were expecting similar success over here. They also mentioned the swear count coming close to the record, held by GoodFellas. A few people had clickers to count the number of times the word "fuck" was used. I didn't hear the end result, but there was a lot of clicking going on during the film.
We had a few drinks before going in, and we were told we could take beer in with us. I mention that purely so you can hate me even more.
So, to the film itself. Well, it's a cracker. The audience were laughing more or less throughout at all the smut, filth and downright comedy. There are so many funny bits and masses of references to look out for. I won't mention plot details because there wasn't one. HA HA - JOKE! There are a few things worth saying, and I'm hoping these will be spoiler-free - sorry of one slips through.
B.Buster / THX3188 / StandsForNothing - I hate you. It could have been me. You bastards. Seriously, hope you enjoyed seeing your names on the screen.
Mewes - despite my forebodings, his acting has improved in leaps and bounds. Delivery was more or less spot on.
Smith - did the business once again all round. There were some beautifully subtle touches in there as well. Yes - subtle is the word I used. There was one move in particular that this wrestling fan enjoyed, but I won't spoil it.
Lee - what can one say? Brilliant as always.
Affleck - after I saw him on the Net trailer, I was a bit apprehensive, as I didn't think his delivery was that good. Suffice to say that he had me in stitches later on in the film.
Damon - comedy gold. Seriously.
Shannon Elizabeth - what a sweetie! She had presence and ability, and they all came good. I'm a fan.
Mrs Smith - good work in her first feature. She didn't stand out from the other three, and I mean that in a good way.
Eliza / Ali - solid performances from both.
Biggs / van der Beek - same again.
Carlin / Fisher / Hamill / Rock / Hooper / Adams / Doherty / Trish / Nelson / Morrissette - marvellous, one and all, especially Nelson and Hamill. I know there were others, but I can't be arsed to remember them all. Is the chap called Will Ferrell? He had one of the funniest moments in the film, in my opinion - and it was a visual gag. In fact, as I write this, I keep remembering more gags, but there are far too many to list.
On other matters, the whole "gay" thing. First of all, any references were used within context, and the characters saying them were made to look like idiots.
Secondly, is Banky gay? Well, the answer to this was revealed, and it is - get a fucking life, you sexually immature bunch of halfwits! Is it that important that you know? Will it really affect you? Sheesh...
Abd finally (thank goodness, I hear you cry), was it a good send off for Jay and Silent Bob? You bet it was! And in return for Kevin's mention of the Board in the credits, may I say in return that kind words will never be in short supply.
Regards,
Jim Shady