This film image released by Warner Bros. shows Will Ferrell as Cam Brady in a scene from “The Campaign.”
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By Sarah George
Photographer
“The Campaign” is first and foremost a political satire on the extremes of political races and the effect that they have on the candidates. The director of Bruno, Borat and The Austin Powers Trilogy, Jay Roach, took care of business and managed to just barely cross the vulgarity line between uncomfortable and funny. Funny men Will Ferrel and Zach Galifianakis star the film, joined by Dan Ackroyd, John Lithgow and Dylan McDermott.
Democratic congressman Cam Brady (Ferrell) is an arrogant idiot whose long stint in congress has thoroughly contributed to his massive ego and overall disconnection from reality.
After a slip-up by Brady became top news, two power-hungry CEOs known as the Motch Brothers (Ackroyd and Lithgow) plot to put someone new into congress who will aid them in bringing Chinese sweatshops into the state. Their secret weapon: Marty Huggins (Galifianakis) is a tour guide and family man with the district’s best interests at heart, but is hindered by his sweet disposition and slightly flamboyant demeanor making him the most unlikely candidate to win.
The Motch brothers bring in expert campaign manager Tim Wattley (McDermott) to turn Huggins’ into a worthy opponent, at whatever costs necessary. From talking around questions, to using power words like “America, Jesus, [and] Freedom” to sex scandals, commercials and baby-kissing.
The Campaign failed to miss an opportunity to playfully criticize the stereotypes of the election process. In addition, it had some heartfelt moments that commented on the lack of honesty in politics.
While formulaic, each of Ferrell’s starring roles never stop short of consistent laughter and The Campaign is no exception.
Galifianakis, on the other hand, could’ve been given more opportunities to be funny. However, his ability to be as awkward humanly possible, and his chemistry with Ferrell kept the audience laughing.
If you purposefully haven’t seen these movies, I’m convinced you’ve probably never laughed once in you life – or you just might not enjoy the humor those films offer, and that’s okay, no judgment here. If that is the case though, I do not suggest seeing The Campaign.
If you just never got around to it, I suggest you make your way to the nearest Redbox and rent Anchorman as soon as possible and get ready for a brighter day.
While The Campaign was funny, it doesn’t compare to other movies starring Ferrell and Galifinakis, however, it is definitely worth a watch if you’re headed to the theater in need of a good laugh and you can handle an excessive amount of vulgarity.
