Between Two Ferns: The Movie

Between Two Ferns: The Movie is a delightfully offbeat 2019 comedy film that brings a beloved and hilarious internet talk show to the big screen. The film is an expansion of the popular web series created by and starring Zach Galifianakis, where he conducts farcical interviews with famous celebrities. The film features an impressive ensemble cast, including not only Galifianakis but also Matthew McConaughey, Rekha Shankar, and a long list of Hollywood A-listers making cameo appearances.

In this ambitious venture, Galifianakis stars as a quirky, seemingly inept version of himself – a public-access cable television host based in North Carolina. Heaven-bent on moving up in the ranks of the talk-show world, he takes his show on the road when Will Ferrell, portrayed as an eccentric and somewhat malevolent media mogul, offers him a big-league shot. The catch: Galifianakis must secure ten high-profile celebrity interviews in a short time. What follows is a hilarious and often cringe-inducing odyssey across the country as Galifianakis and his ragtag crew become entangled in a variety of ill-conceived misadventures and awkward encounters.

Some of the most awkward yet comical moments occur when Galifianakis sits down to interview his guests. These are the moments where the character's knack for socially unaware and inappropriate questions shines through, often leaving his guests baffled and put off. Matthew McConaughey, for instance, delivers a memorable performance, playing along with the hilariously cringe-worthy scenario. Rekha Shankar, from CollegeHumor fame, joins the cast as Keanu Reeves's assistant. A cast of other Hollywood celebrities, including Paul Rudd, Benedict Cumberbatch, John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, and Brie Larson, among others, also make appearances, all game for the peculiar style of humor the film offers.

Despite being a road movie filled with outlandish misadventures, the film manages to spotlight the softer side of Galifianakis's persona. It explores themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and chasing dreams, giving the film a heartening undertone beneath its slapstick comedy and absurdist humor. Galifianakis's relationship with his loyal crew, including his dedicated producer Carol (played by Lauren Lapkus), serves to connect viewers emotionally to the storyline, providing a humanity touch oftentimes missing in comedies.

Directed by Scott Aukerman, a long-time collaborator, and co-written by Aukerman and Galifianakis, this Netflix original maintains the unique humor of the original web series while successfully transitioning it into a feature-length film format. The movie brilliantly expands upon the concept while keeping the trademark cringe-comedy that fans of the web series love.

Scott Aukerman's unique directing style and the script's brilliant dialogue, coupled with Galifianakis's deadpan humor, make for a memorable cinematic experience. The movie effectively pulls off the difficult task of keeping the comedic flow moving swiftly even in between the high-profile interviews. Cinematographer Benjamin Kasulke deserves credit for visually capturing the chaotic essence of Zach's world, often highlighting the two ferns that sit either side of Galifianakis during his interviews - a running gag that fans of the web series will appreciate.

In conclusion, Between Two Ferns: The Movie is a delightful expansion of the original web series that does not shy away from the candid, idiosyncratic humor that made it a hit. The film balances its eccentric comedy with moments of warmth and sincerity, serving to enhance its appeal. Whether you're a fan of the original web series or simply in for a light, laughter-filled romp, Between Two Ferns: The Movie promises a delightful, hilarious journey.