Almost Heroes

This was Chris Farley's last film. He ended on a high note. The movie is intentionally stupid--a hilarious GOOF--and directed by Christopher Guest (known for having directed "This is Spinal Tap"). They surely weren't pushing for an Oscar with this one - merely encouraging laughter. This is the story of Bartholomew Hunt (Chris Farley) and Leslie Edwards (Matthew Perry) who, in 1804, follow explorers Lewis and Clark, in hope of being the first men to see the Pacific Ocean. Along their journey they're sure to bring laughter to true fans of Farley's ways, and perhaps to fans of Mel Brooks' as well, as some of the comedy is similar to Brooks' humour in "Robin Hood - Men in Tights".
It is a real shame that this movie isn't available on DVD (yet?), because the presentation of it on VHS is awful. I quote the fine print on the back of the tape's case: "This film has been modified as follows from its original version: It has been formatted to fit your screen". The picture is zoomed in WAY too far, and the result looks distorted. In many shots heads are cropped, we sometimes see only approximately 75% of the face of the person who speaks, and at one point, where a sign reads "Welcome to Snakes Bend", we only see "elcome to Snakes Ben". I was hugely disappointed by the film's presentation, but surprised by the quality of comedy since this is not a much talked about movie.
Zero points to he who decided to crop the movie, and full points to whoever releases is on DVD (with OPTIONAL formatting).

By today's standards I suspect this film would not be well-received - especially by teenagers. No special effects and the actors are just ordinary people - no silicone and steroid here! However, drink a few beers or perhaps a rum and coke or 2 and this movie will send you over the top. I laughed so hard I think I broke a rib or 2. Not the film you can watch 5 times in a row - a little too repetitive. But for occasional silliness this is a very funny film. Chris Farley is excellent counterpoint to M. Perry's serious boring attitude - which is the whole point of the film. The part about the straw women could have been left out - it smacks of some weird deviant behavior. But the rest is funny.

Lewis and Clark as it could have been. Shaquinna (Lisa Barbuscia) with Bartholomew Hunt and Leslie Edwards are challenged to beat Lewis and Clark to the Pacific. They face many challenges form bears, eagles and the mad conquistador, Hidalgo (Kevin Dunn.)

Will they do so?
And at what cost?

This movie consists of many comic scenes and slapstick sketches. The main theme is held together by Lisa, who plays the counter part of Sacagawea. She would not look bad on the golden dollar either.