Nobody's Perfekt

Nobody's Perfekt is an American comedy film directed by Peter Bonerz and released in 1981. The movie showcases the talents of Gabe Kaplan, Alex Karras, and Robert Klein, becoming a showcase for their unique styles of humor. It offers an energetic and distinctive blend of slapstick comedy, quirky characters, and absurd but hilarious situations.

The premise of Nobody’s Perfekt follows the shared lives of three misfit men, individuals round pegs trying to fit into the square holes of society. They live in an idyllic, albeit somewhat decrepit, small town community. Their offbeat charm and unconventional lifestyles don't necessarily mesh with the expectations of their suburban environment leading to a bevy of humorous interactions and absurd predicaments.

Gabe Kaplan, best known for his role in the television series "Welcome Back, Kotter", plays Dibley, a wannabe entrepreneur with more dreams than logical business plans. His eccentric strategies and constant scheming to hit it big make for a stream of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the film. Kaplan brings his characteristic feature of dry humor and deadpan delivery to the character of Dibley.

Robert Klein plays the role of Woody, the eternal optimist and self-proclaimed patient of a non-existent disease that only exists in his mind. Klein's tour de force comedic skills bring life to Woody, adding a layer of absurdity that combines superbly well with his character's innate optimism.

Alex Karras portrays the character of Pino Palladino, a bumbling but lovable character of few words and unique wisdom. Karras, a former professional American football player before turned actor, imbues his character with a sense of physical comedy creating hilarious comedic moments that keep audiences on their toes.

The chain of events in Nobody's Perfekt is set into motion when the friends, fed up with their daily hardships and continued lack of prosperity, decide to band together in a grand scheme of justice. Their idea of 'justice', however, is as skewed as their eccentric, misaligned lives, sparking off an unpredictable adventure filled with slapstick comedy, improbable nature of scenarios, and rib-tickling dialogue delivery.

As the three plot their way towards their version of a perfect world, they encounter many colorful characters. Highlights from the cast include the lovably cantankerous local sheriff and a less-than-ethical real estate developer, whose roles play brilliantly against our three unlikely heroes. These characters further play into the film's humorous theme of profound imperfection.

The director, Peter Bonerz, deserves commendation as he challenges traditional comedy norms, steering this zany sitcom-like narrative with finesse, keeping the laughs consistent while staying true to the relatable everyday struggles faced by the main characters. Under Bonerz’s direction, the film manages to subtly underline the message concerning society's perception of normativity and the acceptance of different personality types.

While the film is an engaging comedy that largely leans heavily on slapstick humor and quirky character-based comedy, it also shines a light on the trials and tribulations of everyday life, acceptance, and the beauty of imperfection. Nobody's Perfekt chronicles the journey of these three differently unique men navigating through a world that doesn't quite get them, relying on resilience and friendship to get through life's challenges.

This movie is a perfect pick for anyone who enjoys 1980s classics full of unique characters, enchanting humor, and uplifting narration. Its charm lies within its perfectly imperfect characters and their endearing resilience against the challenges the world throws at them.

Even after forty years, Nobody's Perfekt holds up as a delightful comedy featuring memorable performances from Kaplan, Klein, and Karras. Offering distinctive takes on comedy and the perfect blend of humor and heart, the film is a reminder that sometimes in life, the most imperfect plan can yield the most enjoyable experience.