Funland

Funland is a 1987 American dark comedy film directed by Michael A. Simpson. It features a diverse ensemble cast, including experienced actors like William Windom, David L. Lander, and Bruce Mahler. The story primarily progresses in an amusement park of the same name, Funland, as it is expected to open for the season.

As the plot unfolds, you're introduced to a colorful array of characters: the amusement park's owners, concessionaires, and customers, each with their unique quirks and eccentricities. Leading the cast, esteemed actor William Windom plays the role of Angus Perry, the senior park owner grappling with tribulations both professionally and personally. His heartfelt performance lends depth to a multi-dimensional character.

One of the main characters in Funland is Bruce Burger, played skillfully by David L. Lander. Burger is the park's clown, a mascot who entertains kids while secretly nursing his dreams of being a stand-up comedian. His character is lovable and nuanced, struggling to balance his natural comedic talent with the demands of his job. Lander gives a standout performance, offering audience members a distinctive blend of humor, drama, and sentimentality.

Bruce Mahler appears as Mike Spencer, a suave corporate executive with his devious plans, adding a layer of intrigue and conflict to the narrative. All characters navigate through a plot rich in comic farce and surreal events, as the amusement park becomes a hotbed of chaos and mystery.

The film is filled with a concoction of different aspects: it's funny, yet poignant, simple yet layered, and feels sometimes like a far-fetched comedy, other times like a mystery drama. This dynamicity presents a chaotic yet mellow snapshot of amusement park life in a manner that is both amusing and thought-provoking.

The script by Bonnie Turner and Terry Turner navigates the complex interconnectedness of the characters and their personal journeys with briskness and intentional humor. Sprinkled with zesty one-liners that hit the mark, the film's dialogue is part of its charm. Director Simpson adroitly manages to balance between the mildly anarchic environment of an amusement park and the characters' emotional journeys.

As the story unfolds, you'll find the narrative's focal point revolves around the changing ownership of the amusement park, leading to a slew of hilarious and unexpectedly touching moments. The bumbling attempts of well-meaning but largely incompetent new managers to run the park creates a comedic subplot, while the struggle of the previous owners and staff to adjust to the new regime brings depth to the narrative.

Funland is a uniquely nostalgic throwback to 80s cinema, with a synth-heavy soundtrack and a vivid color palette. There is an undercurrent of nostalgia that envelops the film, not just in its aesthetic values, but also in its story and characters, who are trying to cling onto a past that is inevitably giving way to a future they're unprepared for.

The film's cinematography stands out, capturing the vibrant, chaotic energy of a busy amusement park. A wonderful mix of wide establishing shots and intimate close-ups, it allows the audience to feel part of the park's confusing charm.

Funland, with its roller-coaster narrative that captures a gamut of emotions, is a charming film filled with a bunch of interesting, sometimes eccentric, characters. It's a balancing act between comedy and drama, reality and surrealism, past and future. The park, with its motley crew of characters, provides the perfect backdrop for a tale that is less about amusement park shenanigans and more about life itself.

Despite being a comedy, Funland doesn't shy away from exploring more profound themes. At its core, the film examines change – in relationships, circumstances, and dreams, and how people adapt (or fail to adapt) to it. Amidst all the laughter, there’s a sense of poignancy and sweetness that tugs at the heart, making Funland more than just a typical comedy film.

In conclusion, Funland is a delightful, sometimes zany, exploration of life in an amusement park. With unforgettable characters, a fast-paced plot and smart comedy, it's a lesser-known gem from 1987 that certainly deserves a watch for anyone who appreciates nuanced, character-driven humor. Expect to find yourself laughing, occasionally touched, and thoroughly entertained.