Amazon Women on the Moon

Amazon Women on the Moon is an anthology of comic sketches that was released in 1987, offering an amusing and cheeky take on late-night television. Directed by John Landis, Joe Dante, Carl Gottlieb, Peter Horton, and Robert K. Weiss, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Rosanna Arquette, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Arsenio Hall.

The film is a sly parody of the absurd and amusing nature of B-movies and late-night infomercials that were staples of television and culture during the '50s and '80s. It evokes the spirit of sketch-based movies like ‘Kentucky Fried Movie’ with its multiple vignettes, each skewering a specific aspect of pop culture. The title ‘Amazon Women on the Moon’ derives from one of these skits, referring to a spoof of low-budget science fiction movies, featuring an hilarious send-up of the genre’s stereotypes.

The anthology proceeds much like one would flick through various channels; as one comedy sketch concludes, another swiftly takes its place. It's akin to a cinematic sketch comedy show, where the humor ranges from sophisticated satire to slapstick comedy, often exploiting the tropes and clichés of the television and movie industry to serve its narrative. With the directors’ strong comedy pedigree and the impressive cast lending their comedic talents, the film exudes an enjoyable goofiness, making it a delightful and humorous viewing experience.

The sketches vary in length and subject matter, each providing a glimpse into a unique and often ridiculous moment in television history. Some mock-specific genres, while others replicate the style of TV segments, such as commercials or public service announcements. The skits might not be equal in their comic prowess, but what they do consistently is present a satirical critique of American media, deftly diving into its absurdities and extravagances. The viewer encounters parodies of dating games, hospital dramas, late-night adult programming, and even direct mockery of famous or infamous films. And, of course, there's the spoof of B-movies shown within a late-night movie marathon format, lending the film its title.

One of the film’s most memorable segments involves Rosanna Arquette’s character seeking an interpretation of her dating history which is presented to her as a Consumer’s Guide, in a surreal blend of kitschy infomercial style and romantic comedy. Yet another hilarious segment showcases Arsenio Hall's comedic talents as an average man trying to survive an outrageously dangerous apartment. Michelle Pfeiffer, meanwhile, stars in a hospital drama parody, adding her charisma and comic timing to the mix.

The cast of the movie shows great diversity, featuring a mix of established stars, up-and-coming talents, and well-known comedians. This diversity extends to the directors as well, each bringing their unique vision and comedic style to the table, resulting in a collection of sketches that are tonally varied yet intriguingly cohesive.

The film also offers a few moments of musical comedy, featuring guest appearances by musicians like B.B. King who gets his own vignette titled "Blacks Without Soul.” These musical appearances add a further dimension to the film, broadening its appeal and allowing for some genuinely entertaining performances.

Despite its fragmented narrative, Amazon Women on the Moon is threaded together by a key idea that reflects television's ubiquity and its quirkier aspects. This gives it a thematic cohesion and allows for an interesting exploration of pop culture. With a talented cast and multiple renowned directors making their contributions to this anthology, the film is an energetic and engaging satire on the culture of television.

In essence, Amazon Women on the Moon is a jocular commentary on pop culture and television, threaded together by a mischievous sensibility and a keen eye for detail. Its approach is wide-reaching, lampooning everything from sci-fi movies to lifestyle programming through a series of inventive, sometimes absurd, but ultimately enjoyable sketches. Packed with playful performances and some sharp social satire, this is a film that amuses as much as it comments, making it a distinctive and valued entry into the anthology genre.