Going Berserk

Going Berserk is a light-hearted comedy film released in 1983, boasting a cast of talented comedic actors which include the inimitable John Candy, Joe Flaherty, and Eugene Levy. Set in the United States, the film essentially revamps slapstick comedy with an enticingly bizarre narrative. It is directed by David Steinberg, who succeeds in crafting together an unusual but effective comedy that resonates with the audience due to its wacky humor and a genuinely funny storyline.

The film centers around the protagonist, John Bourgignon (played by John Candy), a hapless limo driver who finds himself amidst an array of absurd events that happens while he is enroute to marry the daughter of a United States Congressman. Candy is endearing and effectively comedic in his role as Bourgignon, bringing his unique flair for physical comedy and witty one-liners to the screen in a way that not only makes his character likable, but also somewhat relatable.

Playing Congressman Ed Mills is Joe Flaherty, whose character adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot with political implications. The character is sharp, manipulative yet amusing, a facet heightened by Flaherty's flawlessly timed comic delivery. His daughter Nancy, Bourgignon's bride-to-be, is portrayed by Alley Mills.

Eugene Levy takes on the role of a sketchy, eccentric Scientologist named Dr. Ted. As ever, Levy demonstrates his knack for playing quirky characters with commendable versatility, and his character, Dr. Ted, brings about a twist in the narrative with his bizarre methods, adding to the overall humor in the film.

The storyline of Going Berserk includes a set of captivating subplots that effortlessly contribute to the central narrative, involving hilariously wild cults, slapstick car chase sequences, disturbing dream episodes and a host of eccentric characters. The film maintains a good pace and constant hilarity throughout its runtime, blending physical comedy with absurd situations to keep the audience chuckling.

Director David Steinberg successfully weaves in some pointed satire into the movie’s narrative, creating humorous sequences that reflect cultural and societal absurdities of the 80s. One of the main themes running throughout the film is the sendup to L. Ron Hubbard's Church of Scientology, an aspect that gives Going Berserk an authentic flavor that sets it apart from other comedies of its time. It is the humorous take on such a serious subject that brings about the irony that the movie heavily leans on, and it does it with such subtlety and hilarity that the balance between humor and critique is never lost.

In addition to strong performances from the cast, the film's success lies in its script. Going Berserk isn't a generic comedy - it incorporates a wide range of humor, from situational comedy to parodies of well-known television shows and trends, presenting opportunities for different comedic talents to shine. The dialogue feels natural and is filled with clever punchlines, snappy comebacks and plenty of moments that make the characters stand out.

As for the technical aspects, the cinematography effectively captures the nuances of the comical scenes. The editing is noticeably sharp, ensuring that the comic timing of the scenes is hit perfectly. The background score further complements the comedy-drama, contributing significantly to its overall feel.

In the end, Going Berserk is an excellent comedy film that truly showcases the comedic talents of its cast. It has an eccentric charm and wit and balances well between silliness and satire. It offers a sense of unpredictability that makes the ride all the more entertaining. Although it was released in the early 80s, its humor feels timeless, and it can be quickly picked up and appreciated by audiences of any era.

Whether you're a fan of slapstick comedy, political satire, or just a fan of John Candy, Joe Flaherty and Eugene Levy, Going Berserk proves to be a vastly amusing film to watch. It’s a comedy that invites viewers in with relatable characters, hilarious predicaments, and an absurdly humorous story. It's one film that can be watched, rewatched, and loved all over again for its unique blend of classic and contemporary humor.