Sacha Baron Cohen is one of this generation’s most genius comedians. His work comes across as comedy, but is actually thinly veiled social commentary. Borat was a brilliant film that exposed people’s phobias and levels of intolerance. Cohen has, once again, made a comedic spectacle. But, this time, it not only fails to challenge perceptions, it also may perpetuate or create homophobic stereotypes. Brüno is no Borat!
Although there are a few laugh-out-loud moments, most of the movie is filled with close-ups of crotch shots and over-the-top homosexual sex scenes. Cohen plays Brüno, an Austrian model, who is trying to make it big in America. He orchestrates numerous bits to garner attention, including adopting an African American baby and going on talk shows. Pushing boundaries is part of Cohen’s shtick and a few schemes worked to comedic perfection. The most brilliant scene in the movie occurs when parents are trying to get their children cast in Brüno’s video. The parents are willing to subject their children to just about anything. The movie should have contained more revealing and insightful scenes like this. Sadly, Cohen depended too much on cheap humor instead of making a film of substance.
Cohen must be commended for his ability to take on the personas he creates. He is almost unrecognizable as Brüno and plays the part with gusto. The movie did not have the cohesiveness that allowed Borat to score at the box office. Many of the scenes were thrown together and had little transition between scenes.
Audience members will flock to the movie, and the closing scene will make the film worth its $10 price. But your time is better served saving Brüno for a matinee or rental!
Grade: C-
