Banzaï
Michel works there manically solving people's problems over the phone. He is about to tie the knot with his girl friend Isabelle, an airline hostess. She flies all over the world, he hates to leave the office. A series of madcap mishaps involving theft or injury (as you would expect in his line of work) ensues after Michel promises Isabelle nothing will delay their marriage and she promises in turn that she's done flying. Once this unlikely promise is made, it becomes premise and both are forced into escalating white lies to maintain the appearance of keeping their word. Their predicament mounts as Isabelle is forced to do a few more flights, while Michel is compelled to travel to New York, Tunisia, and finally Hong Kong, where they are finally reunited in the throes of a contrived and hilarious drug deal involving a 747, water taxi chases, and martial arts.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young French woman travels to Tokyo to deliver a package to her estranged father, who is involved in dubious dealings. She becomes entangled in a series of dangerous and absurd situations as she navigates the city and its eccentric characters, including a peculiar private investigator and a bumbling duo of bodyguards. The film blends slapstick humor with elements of a chase comedy as she tries to complete her mission and evade those pursuing her.
Critical Reception
Banzaï received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding its humor forced and its plot nonsensical. While some appreciated the slapstick elements and the energetic performances, particularly from Coluche, the film was largely seen as a shallow and uninspired comedy that relied too heavily on stereotypes. Audience reception was also lukewarm, failing to make a significant impact at the box office.
What Reviewers Say
- The film suffers from a weak and confusing plot.
- Humor is often reliant on tired stereotypes and slapstick.
- Performances, especially from the comedic actors, offer some amusement.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this film, but general sentiment suggests it's a forgettable comedy with uneven humor and a nonsensical storyline.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Tokyo, offering glimpses of the city in the early 1980s.
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