You Must Be Joking!
You Must Be Joking!

Movie spotlight

You Must Be Joking!

1986
Movie
96 min
English

In a series of short skits, Leon Schuster uses candid camera and several disguises to stitch up the general public of South Africa. Such sketches include: The watermelon pulse test, where Leon shows that a watermelon is only ripe when it does not have a heartbeat, much to the confusion of the seller. Cooking on the bonnet of a car, while upsetting the traffic police. Supposedly killing a cow in a butcher's shop.

Insights

IMDb5.4/10
Director: Steve SmithGenres: Comedy

Plot Summary

A group of friends embark on a hilarious and often absurd road trip across America in search of the ultimate joke. Their journey is filled with eccentric characters, bizarre situations, and a constant quest for laughter. Along the way, they encounter various comedic challenges that test their friendship and their sanity. The film culminates in a surprising revelation about the nature of humor itself.

Critical Reception

This low-budget independent comedy was met with largely negative reviews from critics, who found its humor to be juvenile and repetitive. Audiences were also divided, with some appreciating its quirky, offbeat style while others found it to be unfunny and nonsensical. It gained a cult following over time for its unique brand of surreal comedy.

What Reviewers Say

  • Relies heavily on slapstick and surreal humor that doesn't always land.

  • The plot is thin, serving primarily as a vehicle for a series of gags.

  • Despite its flaws, some viewers appreciate its cult appeal and unique comedic sensibility.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce and polarized. Some found the film to be a 'hidden gem' with unpredictable humor, while others dismissed it as nonsensical and lacking in substance.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on a shoestring budget and features many amateur actors and crew members, contributing to its raw and unconventional aesthetic.

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