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It’s not surprising that with the US presidential election around the corner a comedy about American politics gets released to capitalise on and ridicule the election process at the same time.
Comedy veteran Jay Roach, who is responsible for other hits like Austin Powers and Meet the Parents, directs The Campaign and disappointingly only takes light pokes behind the politics and straddles a middle ground to avoid any partisan leaning.
And although I did wipe a few tears from laughter, I expected both Zach Galifianakis and Will Ferrell, the main actors in the film who masquerade as clowns, to mock the ridiculous current politics by lacing laughs with real irritation.
Cam Brody (Ferrell) is a North Carolina congressman who has run unopposed many times. Cam may be regarded as a loveable community figure, but he really only enjoys the perks that come with being in power rather than actually doing his job.
When his philandering ways causes media hellfire, his motto ‘family, Jesus and freedom’ is soon used against him, ultimately motivating business moguls Glenn (Lithgow) and Wade, played by Dan Aykroyd, to sponsor a new candidate to oppose Cam for the first time.
The eccentric Marty Huggins (Galifianakis) who comes from a wealthy family is their first pick. Little do they know, he actually cares for his community more than Cam ever did. At first, he struggles with the dirty strategies of politics, but under the guidance of a cutthroat campaign manager, Tim Wattley, played by the good-looking Dylan McDermott, he starts to gain serious traction and is soon the favourite to win.
However, as election day draws near with the audience unsure of who will win the race, Cam and Marty prepare for a brutal battle.
Although I thought Galifianakis’ character was hilarious, and possibly the only reason I gave this movie 3 popcorns, if you’ve seen any of his previous films, such as The Hangover, you kind of know what quirks to expect.
Ferrell also played a familiar role, similar to his Ron Burgundy character in Anchorman and the George Bush impression he frequently does on Saturday Night Live. And, I must add, I love the southern American accent.
By reversing the usual political stereotypes and making Marty the liberal republican and Cam the all-American democrat, it keeps viewers from favouring a particular side as both the characters are likeable and better suited for specific aspects in politics.
The film’s best moments aren’t carried out by the stars, but instead by the supporting cast. McDermott as the ninja militant campaign manager and Karen Maruyama as Marty’s father’s housekeeper provided some of the funniest and light-hearted scenes. Not to mention Marty’s plump kid who doesn’t say much but still got giggles throughout the theatre.
In addition, Lithgow and Aykroyd as the billionaire industrialists were the perfect choice to flirt with satire and conspire to in-source Chinese labour to the city.
In between all the politics there’s baby punching, profanity and cute little pugs to lighten the mood, but it still feels restrained. The political jabs never go deep enough to leave a mark, but it is still worth a watch.
*Showing in Cineco, Saar Cineplex and Seef II
