Zoolander      2001 Review by Jonathan Cornwell Directed by Ben Stiller PG-13, 105 min. (sexuality, drug content) Starring: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Milla Jovovich, Christine Taylor Producers: Ben Stiller, Stuart Cornfeld, Scott Rudin Screenplay: Ben Stiller, John Hamburg, Drake Sather Distributor: Paramount Pictures Released: 9/28/01 (Wide) Rating: (out of ) Zoolander is a spoof of the modeling industry, complete with over-the-top skits that make male models in particular look ignorant, stupid, and plain dumb. Directed by Ben Stiller, the film bends over backwards in an attempt to squeeze every possible ounce of hilarity from the "uptightness" of the fashion world. Although brave in its effort, Zoolander quickly becomes too satirical for its own good, ending up somewhere between There's Something About Mary and Dumb and Dumber. The film's best scenes occur early in the film, and by the time the last reel comes along, one is probably begging for the end credits. Poking fun at certain stereotypes can be very effective (see Galaxy Quest), but there's a fine line between humorous and just plain stupid. Zoolander invariably falls into the latter category. Stiller plays Derek Zoolander, a three-time model of the year who has recently been ousted from the top spot in the fashion industry by newcomer extraordinare Hansel (Owen Wilson). Both are mind-numbingly moronic, obsessed with their looks, and oblivious to those outside their inner circle. Unable to cope with the death of his three roommates in an accident (they douse themselves in gasoline at a gas station and light a cigarette) and a recent story in Time magazine exposing his stupidity, Zoolander is ready to retire from the business, instead wanting to build a reading center for disadvantaged children. However, a fashion executive named Mugatu (Will Farrell) has plans for Derek - to brainwash him into assassinating the prime minister of Malaysia because of his stance against child labor (which obviously hurts his clothing line). Derek's agent (Jerry Stiller) and his new journalist girlfriend (Christine Taylor) must find a way to protect him from himself. It's obvious that Stiller went all-out for his role, complete with outrageous outfits, heavy makeup, and a look called "blue steel." He's maybe the quintessential poster boy for ignorant models, and he makes the most of his time. Along for the ride is friend Owen Wilson, who can't get enough thrill-rides during his multiple shoots around the world. Yes, there are times when Zoolander is funny, even hilarious (especially during a model "walk-off" between Stiller and Wilson), but how many different ways can you humiliate an industry that hardly needs the attention? In this effort, it comes across as a strained, forced endeavor that never really finds its soul. At least the cast is having fun. Stiller surrounds himself with his friends, his wife (Taylor), and even his father (Jerry). That doesn't include the numerous cameos from the likes of Jon Voight, Cuba Gooding Jr., Winona Ryder, David Bowie, David Duchovny, and Billy Zane. They are comfortable in their roles, and for the most part, are acceptable. However, the script is light on plot, leaving the characters with extra time to act ridiculous and ad lib whenever possible. While this can be fun to watch, it also becomes tedious and irritating. Zoolander will find an audience that enjoys this type of humor. For me, while sporadically funny, it leaves too many holes to fill, too many problems with pacing and directing to recommend it. It's mindless fare, but definitely not worth the price of admission. Fashion models may be shallow and conceited, but at least they're not in this poorly realized film. I get the feeling that they'll have the last laugh here. © 2001 Jonathan Cornwell Masterpiece - Film perfection Excellent - A Must See Good - Highly Recommended Fair - Worth seeing Average - Viewable, but not recommended Below average - View at own risk Poor - Avoid at all costs Very poor - An embarassment to the film industry Zero Awful - One of the worst films ever made © 2000 - present ReelCriticReviews All movie pictures are registered trademarks and/or copyrights of their respective holders Their use on this site is for informational purposes only and does not imply ownership