Special Correspondents

Special Correspondents is a 2016 satirical comedy film starring Ricky Gervais, Eric Bana, and Vera Farmiga. The film is written and directed by Ricky Gervais, a critically acclaimed comedian renowned for creating and starring in ‘The Office’ UK, and is one of Netflix's first original films. The film is a remake of French comedy Envoyés Très Spéciaux, transferring the action from France to the United States.

Central to the narrative is radio journalist, Frank Bonneville (Eric Bana), and his hapless technician, Ian Finch (Ricky Gervais). Bonneville is a fast-talking, cynical New York journalist who relishes in his self-perceived stature as a muckraker. In parallel, Finch is the naïve, well-intentioned, and often manipulated sound technician. As characters, they strike an interesting contrast in this comedic endeavour, forming an unlikely duo that brings both hilarious mishaps and warm moments.

The premises of the film spotlights a rampant phenomenon in the media world: fake news. Bonneville and Finch wrongly end up thrown out of their office without passports or money, just as they're about to be dispatched to Ecuador to report on a rebel uprising. Subsequently, with unintentional irony, they decide to remain in New York but fake frontline war reports from an Ecuadorian warzone from the comfort of a Spanish restaurant's loft.

Bonneville and Finch's false news broadcasts start gaining traction, influencing the political landscape while the duo revels in their newfound fame back home. The world is hanging on to their every word, not realizing that the journalists they're adoring are, in fact, phonies producing reports above a restaurant.

Vera Farmiga plays Eleanor Finch, Ian's estranged wife, who seizes the scenario as an opportunity to turn her stalled life around. She woefully exploits Ian's situation to her advantage with media coverage, facilitating a charity drive for the "war-stricken" areas, and launching her aspiring singing career. Her character is a compelling subplot as a fame-hungry woman whose aspirations often touch upon the ridiculous.

Adding flavor to the narrative are a myriad of supporting characters. Among them, America Ferrera plays Brigida, the Spanish restaurant owner who unwittingly becomes their Ecuadorian "local contact" through audio appearances in their counterfeit war broadcasts. Other characters are played by a diverse roster of talent, including Benjamin Bratt, Raul Castillo, and Meghan Heffern.

The multiple narrative threads and assortment of characters provide various opportunities for comedy in the film. Filled with Gervais' distinct sense of humor, the story offers a potpourri of comedic dynamics, including slapstick humor, quick-witted dialogue, awkward situations, and satirical commentaries on media, fame, celebrity culture, and public gullibility.

Special Correspondents isn't just a comedy, however, but also includes elements of drama. Throughout the course of the film, the characters are faced with moral dilemmas, taking the narrative into heavy territory at times. Gervais’ script doesn't shy away from delving into these moments of introspection and ethical quandaries, producing a movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The film importantly serves as a critique of the media and its influence, showing the dangers of disinformation and the potential effects of unverified news on public sentiment. It uses comedy as a means to bring attention to these issues, making the film both amusing and insightful.

Special Correspondents stands unique as a comedic exploration of the motto, “fake it till you make it.” It seeks to strike a rich balance between its comedic elements, character development, and framing a mirror onto the media culture. With moments of hilarity, sentimentality, and satire, it fosters an atmosphere that keeps the viewers on their toes.

Borne from the creative mind of Ricky Gervais, Special Correspondents stands as a testament to his comedy pedigree and storytelling prowess. Coupled with memorable performances by the ensemble cast, it serves as a socially aware, humour-packed exploration of truth and deception in the age of news-media. Whether you're a fan of humor with substance, a follower of Gervais' iconic style, or intrigued by narratives unraveling the complexities of our modern world, Special Correspondents could make a worthy addition for your viewing pleasure.