Be Kind Rewind (2008)

Though something I would consider a little less "far out" than Michael Gondry's other work, Be King Rewind creates a small, simplistic environment with sensitive male performances that play off of a tragic, yet hilarious accident. If you didn't know, the accident involves a rather old-fashioned video store (that only deals with VHS tapes) that loses every piece of footage in their already small selection of movies, thanks to a mishap of Jerry (Jack Black) becoming magnetized by a local power plant. Jerry attempts to infiltrate the power plant after developing the theory that they are controlling everyone's minds. It's not a very typical role for Mr. Black, as we are used to him being the fat, crazy extremist he normally showcases in films like Orange County and Tenacious D: The Pick of Destiny. But as I said, the male roles here are sensitive.

Their resolution for solving the problem with the tapes, is to re-shoot every single tape into their own B-grade, twenty minute versions. I found this to be one of the funniest qualities of the movie, as the films they remake are paid tribute to through their campy recreation. Famous films such as Ghostbusters, Robocop and even Driving Miss Daisy appear among their homemade projects.

Black shows more of a glimpse into his goofy self while portraying characters in the remakes, which made me a little unsure of what kind of character Black is trying to display. That is, of course, assuming he is going for a one-dimensional character. On the other hand, Mos Def and Danny Glover were excellent and performed together extremely well.

Overall I was impressed with Gondry's pursuit in filming more of the norm. The homemade videos added a second perspective to appreciating the film, and if you've seen the original versions, you will probably laugh that much harder. Aside from that, the movie doesn't generate as much humor as it does bestowing the benefits and harmony of independent film making. For this reason alone, Be Kind Rewind has a unique quality that simultaneously warms the heart and brings the idea of movie making closer to us.