Les Patterson Saves the World

Les Patterson Saves the World is an audacious, politically incorrect, and uproariously entertaining 1987 Australian comedy film that combines satire, slapstick humor, and irreverent charm into one unforgettable cinematic experience. Directed by the revered George Miller, the film was a product of Australia's vibrant film industry during the 1980s. Barry Humphries, best known for his iconic character Dame Edna Everage, assumes the lead role of Sir Les Patterson, while Pamela Stephenson and Thaao Penghlis fill out the exceptional supporting cast.

The film showcases the comedic prowess of Barry Humphries, featuring him in two roles – the flamboyant and crude Australian diplomat Sir Les Patterson, and the suave and sophisticated alter ego known as Ultra Man. Les Patterson is depicted as a politically incorrect, hard-drinking, and perpetually inappropriate Australian diplomat whose lewd behavior leaves a trail of chaos and comedy wherever he goes. In stark contrast, Ultra Man is a brave, intelligent, and handsome hero - an embodiment of cool sophistication with extraordinary powers.

The humor in Les Patterson Saves the World is distinctly Australian, taking well-aimed jibes at political figures, diplomats, and the surreal world of international politics. Humphries deftly uses his satirical alter ego to lampoon bureaucracy, diplomacy, and international relations, not sparing even his native Australia and the culture of the time.

Pamela Stephenson, a robust comedic talent in her own right, plays a key role in the movie. She brings to life the character of Veronique Crudité, a fiery and sultry french scientist whose work plays a critical role in the film's plot. Thaao Penghlis, known for his roles in daytime dramas, offers a sturdy performance and brings an undercurrent of drama and tension to the predominantly comedic film.

The film really comes alive with its outrageous plot. Following a catastrophic faux pas during a diplomatic dinner in the Middle East, Patterson is sent to an isolated outpost to keep him out of the spotlight. However, fate takes an unexpected turn, and he is unwittingly thrust into a mission to save the world from a potentially catastrophic scientific experiment gone awry. In a wild ride across continents and cultures, our bumbling hero must navigate his way through the world of international politics and intrigue to save the day.

The cinematography and direction style features a blend of 80s Australian aesthetics and globe-spanning locales. The notable scenes, including riotous parties, chase sequences, brawls, and hilarious misunderstandings, are shot with a unique mix of grandeur and farcical humor. The director, George Miller, brings his own offbeat style in directing this unconventional comedy. It's certainly not a conventional Hollywood fare but rather a testament to the creativity and daring of 1980s Australian cinema.

The soundtrack of the film is in sync with the times with its 80s electronic music interspersed with classic Australian tunes, enhancing the film's comic tone. The script, co-written by Humphries and his writing partner Lance Peters, together with film director George Miller, is filled with quick-witted banter, puns, and innuendos that add substance to the slapstick and physical comedy in the movie.

Les Patterson Saves the World offers an amusing exploration of the comedic potential in the world of diplomacy and international politics - an area rarely touched by comedy films. It is not afraid to push boundaries or offend for the sake of a joke and delivers its humor with an unapologetic forthrightness typical of Australian culture at the time.

The film is a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts who enjoy political satire and offbeat humor. It may not be to everyone's taste, but for those who appreciate Barry Humphries's style of humor, Les Patterson Saves the World would be an entertaining watch. More than that, it captures a golden era of the Australian film industry, and for this reason alone, it is worthy of recognition. Even though the film was not a commercial success upon release, over the years, it has gained cult status and is now considered a classic in Australian cinema.

Although dated by its 1980s origin, Les Patterson Saves the World remains a vibrant and unsophisticated piece of comedic brilliance that will leave you in stitches while also providing sharp social commentary on its era. The film invites and rewards viewers with its rollicking story, comedic gags, and performances that openly relish in the silliness of it all.