Brüno – Borat was so 2006 July 8, 2009

Genre: Comedy
Australian release date: 8th July, 2009
Rating: MA15+

Length: 81 mins
Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen & Gustaf Hammarsten
Directed By: Larry Charles
Soundtrack: Erran Baron Cohen

Going into this movie about a gay Austrian fashionista, I was expecting nothing short of sheer brilliance. After Ali G and Borat, it could only get better right? In my opinion, not so much. Don’t get me wrong, this movie is definitely worthy of 5/5, I just think Borat sits more around 6.5/5 and Ali G, well, 10/5 for the Ali G we saw back in 2000…

What can I say about the plot? Baron Cohen doesn’t fail to shock, there’s an abundance of politically incorrect stunts, his portrayal of homosexuality is nothing short of shocking, and there’s plenty of racism thrown in for old times sake. This being said, the film seemed to be missing bits and pieces, and with a length of 80 mins, one wonders whether this may have had something to do with pending law suits involving its initial content? Be prepared to cringe, laugh until your sides hurt, and witness the horror that is the stupidity and ignorance of Baron Cohen’s unsuspecting cast.

I enjoyed the soundtrack (compiled by Baron Cohen’s brother Erran) immensely. Great use of dramatic orchestral mood setters made me sympathetic to Bruno in all the right places, and the inclusion of my all time favourite song Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On were highlights.

Definitely do not see this one with your parents! I’m still shocked at the MA15+ rating, at risk of sounding like an old fuddy duddy, this deserved at least an R18+. If you’re easily offended by nudity (think Forgetting Sarah Marshall style) then this one might not be for you. I was quietly amused by the guy sitting behind me who exclaimed afterwards “They were making fun of Hitler! How is that funny?” My guess is he missed out on Borat…

-nome5tar