News Taffy

Lampooning the reality of big CEOs buying out politicians, political commercials and over-the-top antics to get the ante on your competitor in the polls, The Campaign brings lots of laughs (mainly through crude jokes and profanity) through big names Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis and company. While I think this movie was one of the funnier movies I’ve seen this summer, some may not care for the silly antics or profanity throughout The Campaign.

In The Campaign, North Carolina congressman Cam Brady (Ferrell) is running unopposed in the upcoming election, and is living it up as an elected official in the small town of Hammond. The money-hungry Motch Brothers (John Lithgow and Dan Akroyd) want to shake things up politically (and make millions in the meantime by bringing Chinese factories over to Hammond), so they put up a simple-minded tour guide, Marty Huggins as Brady’s rival. The two take their battles to the debates and political commercials to destroy the other’s reputation through any means necessary.

Seeing the two comedians go toe to toe with one another was amusing. Ferrell transforms himself into a good ol’ Southern boy, with a Ricky Bobby-like accent from Talladega Nights. He brings in the crude laughs by pulling his usual outrageous antics a la Ricky Bobby—so if you’re not a fan of “overacting” Ferrell, you may want to pass on this movie. Galifaniakis was entertaining as the oddball candidate by flaunting a flamboyant voice and his love for his beloved pugs and his town. Supporting cast members were also hilarious, such as Brady and Huggins’ campaign managers, good-hearted Mitch Jason Sudeikis) and mysterious Tim Wattley (Dylan McDermott). The “old fashioned” maid, Mrs. Yao, is also a hilarious addition to the bunch.

What I thought was a nice touch was bringing up how the campaigns were affecting Brady and Huggins back at home with their spouses and children. It kind of rings home the fact of how family can be a hindrance or a blessing depending on how one accepts a challenging job.

For me, it was one of the funnier comedies I’ve watched this summer. It wasn’t the best Ferrell movie (compared to Anchorman or Elf), but teaming up with Galifianakis was a great idea, and the laughs you’ll hear in the theater are a result of that. After watching The Campaign, I don’t think I’ll be able to keep a straight face during the upcoming election coverage without stifling some chuckles.

Until next time,
Rachel