A Jerk's Version of the American Dream
"The Jerk" is a satirical exploration of the American Dream and the notion of self-made success.
Released in 1979, "The Jerk" is more than just a slapstick comedy; it is a cultural artifact that captures a specific era of American humor. Directed by Carl Reiner and starring Steve Martin in his first lead role, the film has left an indelible mark on the comedy genre.
This article delves into the cultural commentary embedded in "The Jerk," its fascinating behind-the-scenes factoids, the stellar cast, the awards it garnered, and the varied reviews from movie critics over the years.
Cultural Commentary
"The Jerk" is a satirical exploration of the American Dream and the notion of self-made success. The film follows Navin R. Johnson, played by Steve Martin, a naive and kind-hearted man who was adopted by an African-American family in Mississippi.
Navin embarks on a journey to discover his identity and make something of himself, despite his initial lack of awareness and skills.
The film’s humor stems from Navin’s absurd misunderstandings and childlike innocence, which serve as a critique of societal norms and expectations. His journey from rags to riches and back to rags again highlights the fickle nature of wealth and fame.
Through Navin’s exaggeratedly simple perspective, the film subtly comments on racial and class dynamics, using humor to address issues that were relevant then and remain so today.
Behind-the-Scenes Factoids
Steve Martin’s Screenwriting Debut: "The Jerk" marked Steve Martin’s first foray into screenwriting. He co-wrote the screenplay with Carl Gottlieb and Michael Elias, drawing from his own comedic sensibilities and stand-up routines.
Inspiration from Real Life: Martin’s character was partly inspired by his own life experiences and the absurdities he observed in everyday interactions. His portrayal of Navin’s earnestness and naivety is a comedic exaggeration of the everyman’s quest for purpose.
The Opti-Grab Invention: The film’s plot takes a turn when Navin invents the Opti-Grab, a handle for eyeglasses that brings him immense wealth. This fictional invention became a memorable plot device and a symbol of accidental success.
Casting and Cameos: Carl Reiner, the director, makes a cameo appearance as himself in the film. The cast also includes Bernadette Peters, who plays Navin’s love interest, and M. Emmet Walsh as the crazed sniper who inadvertently sets Navin on his journey.
The Cast
Steve Martin (Navin R. Johnson): Known for his sharp wit and unique comedic style, Martin’s performance in "The Jerk" solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
Bernadette Peters (Marie Kimble Johnson): Peters’ performance as Navin’s love interest showcased her versatility as an actress and singer, adding depth to the film’s romantic subplot.
M. Emmet Walsh (Madman): Walsh’s portrayal of the deranged sniper adds a darkly humorous element to the film, highlighting the unpredictability of Navin’s adventures.
Carl Reiner (Himself): Reiner’s cameo as a talk show host interviewing Navin adds a meta-textual layer to the film, emphasizing the absurdity of Navin’s rise to fame.
Awards and Accolades
While "The Jerk" did not sweep major awards, it has earned a place in the annals of comedy history. The film’s enduring popularity is evidenced by its inclusion in various “greatest comedies” lists over the years. In 2000, the American Film Institute ranked "The Jerk" 89th on its list of the 100 funniest American films.
Upon its release, "The Jerk" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its originality and Steve Martin’s comedic talent, while others found its humor too crude or nonsensical. However, over time, the film has garnered a cult following and is now considered a classic in the comedy genre.
Roger Ebert: In his review for the Chicago Sun-Times, Ebert gave the film three out of four stars, noting that while it was not for everyone, it showcased Steve Martin’s unique comedic style effectively.
Vincent Canby: Writing for The New York Times, Canby highlighted the film’s absurdity and Martin’s performance, though he was more reserved in his praise, suggesting the humor might not resonate with all audiences.
Rotten Tomatoes: With the advent of online review aggregators, "The Jerk" has maintained a positive rating, reflecting its continued appreciation among contemporary audiences and critics.
Conclusion
"The Jerk" remains a seminal work in the comedy genre, offering a blend of slapstick, satire, and social commentary. Its influence is seen in the works of many comedians and filmmakers who followed.
As audiences revisit Navin R. Johnson’s hilarious misadventures, the film’s legacy as a timeless comedy classic is assured. Through its absurdity and heart, "The Jerk" continues to entertain and provoke thought, proving that sometimes, it takes a fool to reveal the truth about society.