#film: death to smoochy

[aarontveit]

DEATH TO SMOOCHY | 2002 +dir. Danny DeVito.

[d1gnan]

finished the first of a movie recommendation zine series im starting 🎥

[driveintheaterofthemind]

Arthouse Muppets

Death To Smoochy featuring Kermit, Piggy And Fozzie

Art by Bruce McCorkindale

[moviefunforeveryone]

98: Death to Smoochy (2002): “Corrupt politicians make the other ten percent look bad.” so said noted war criminal and current resident of the fiery pits of Hell Henry Kissinger, and what this film presupposes is, yes, but the politicians are actually Kids entertainers. And Society. Imagine if you will that the lovable and extremely wholesome entertainers of our VERY children, were actually perverts drug addicts, crooks and of course, real jerks. Now imagine a movie where One Brave Man stands up against this rot and gives our children, and maybe ourselves exactly what it is we need. Well that is in the broadest strokes Death To Smoochy, and yet somehow it still fuckin rocks. Robin Williams is Rainbow (fuckin') Randolph beloved TV entertainer who among a myriad of flaws has been taking cash to put kids in prime locations on his extremely popular children's show. Unfortunately for Rainbow it is a pre 9/11 world (altho released in 2002 it is a very pre September 11 vibes time) and so the government actually had time to thwart his corruption. He is arrested for many crimes and most importantly loses his show. John Stewart the man in charge of Kidsnet shows (Marion Frank Stokes) has a problem, he needs his new host to be squeaky fucking clean, but when going through a list of potential replacements all he finds is reprobates, except for 'Absolute Sap' Edward Norton (Sheldon Mopes) the creator of none other than Smoochy The Rhino seen weekly at the Coney Island Methadone Clinic. Catherine Keener (Nora Wells) exec producer/child's tv host love maker is hard on Mopes until the time comes when she see that this Sap is strong as an Oak tree. No I don't really know what that means. Featuring winning turns by Harvey Firestein and Danny Devito (also the director) and one of the funniest line reads I have ever heard 'When Spinner Dunn punch drunk sweetie pie says “Don't go anywhere, Smoochy. I'll be right back after I take a dump ”' this movie is good. I mean obviously I have it on my list. DeVito as director is always interesting because the man himself is very interesting, when he's doing comedy I think he can sometimes go too hard for the 'dark' side of things, not in a shitty edge lord kind of way but from a pretty fair and correct POV. He is rare in mainstream celebrities in that he seems to have a good idea of what the problems are and more important the system that causes them (Capitalism BABY) but sometimes he just goes a step too far when describing it in comedy. I think that is where this film is not as tenable to a wide audience, ESPECIALLY back in 2002, even with the pall of 9/11 the world was still very gung ho about Crapitalism (patent pending) and any real critiques of it, especially ones that can verge on sour were really unloved by most people. A thing I will probably mention again and again is that I worked for almost 10 years in multiple video stores, and my experiences with this film were pretty singular. Women despised it back in the early to mid 00's. And I don't mean that in some shit head anti woman way, just that in my experiences women really hated this thing. I will update to say that in present day I have met plenty of women who enjoy the film and so I assume it is a cultural change not a gender change. OK COOL In closing I love this movie Williams is electric, Keener is really underrated and conveys anger and vulnerability expertly, DeVito is a good director heavy handedness or not, and he has some really lovely shots especially dealing with the taping of the Smoochy show. And look you're gonna find gentle reader that I am always gonna be into art that tells me not loving commercialism is good and if you don't that's a you problem.

[forkitsake]

What...doesn't everyone curate a selection of films for a movie date?

[jbk405]

I just finished rewatching Death to Smoochy for the first time in ten years or so, and that movie is a trip.  I always liked it, but truthfully I can’t say I’m surprised that it was a public bomb given its wild tonal swings and occasional bizarre imagery.  It seems almost perfectly engineered for “cult classic” status.

As I was preparing to watch it I stumbled on the video of Henry Rollins telling the story of his audition for Spinner Dunn (He didn’t get the part).  Imagining what the movie would have been like if Rollins had actually been cast is a mind-explosion all on its own.

It definitely hit a lot differently now to see Rainbow Randolph’s breakdown and eventual suicide attempt, given Robin Williams’ real-life mental health struggles and death.  I won’t say it “ruins” the movie, but it makes it harder to laugh at instead of sympathize with.

[noodl3senpai]

2. 10. 11. 19. 😁

2. A movie you think is underrated:

Definitely Death to Smoochy, it's a very dark comedy about children's entertainers. I feel like nowadays more people know about it

10. A foreign-language movie you like:

Throw Down by Johnnie To. It's such a beautiful film i love it so much. Also Funky Forest.

11. A movie you wish you could un-watch:

I don't think i would un-watch any movie i've seen. Maybe Pacific Rim Uprising.

19. A movie you look forward to watching (could be an upcoming release or not)

Macon Blair's Toxic Avenger

[oldmanpuppyplay]

Movie Buff 💪 Q’s: 2, 37, & 39!

delay on getting these answered but here we go :D

2. What movie(s) could you watch over and over and not get tired of?

Hitman (2007), Arsenic and Old Lace (1944), My Cousin Vinny (1992), Death to Smoochy (2002), Oscar (1991), 1408 (2007), some like it hot (1959) - if i go too long between watches i get antsy

37. Movie quote that will always make you laugh?

proof comedy is subjective its from Cool Hand Luke and all you have to say to me is "Shakin' it up here, boss!" to send me into fits if the timing is right.

39. Favorite cult film?

Ghost World. Its kinda a sleepy pick compared to a lot of my favorites, its full of that 2001 irony, but it came to me at a time in my life when I needed it I think. I was 17 so also thinking about my place in the world after graduation and much like Thora Birch's character I too would try real hard to fuck Steve Buscemi if given a chance.

[supermariomamafucker]

have you ever seen the film death to smoochie?

no i have not watched anything from the twisted mind of danny devito sorry

[brightlotusmoon]

Oh! Haha. No. No, I'm not. But I wasn't okay to begin with so it's fine!

To quote Robin Williams in the film Death To Smoochy:

"I'm kinda fucked up in general, so it's hard to gauge."

Overheard in a thread about restaurants offering free meals.

"If people that don’t need it take it, it says something about them. If you don’t give because of the chance someone might take it that doesn’t need it, that says something about you."

[andersonvision]

Death to Smoochy is a biting satire on the world of children's television, was met with polarized reactions upon its release. Its blend of black humor, eccentric characters, and scathing social commentary made it a unique entry in the early 2000s cinema landscape, but it was not an immediate hit with critics or audiences. Over time, however, Death to Smoochy has gained a cult following, appreciated for its bold satire and the performances of its leads. With the recent Blu-ray release of Death to Smoochy, fans of the film have the chance to revisit it in high definition, with improved picture and sound quality. Danny DeVito really loved this movieRobin Williams cuts looseBarney was really falling out of the Zeitgeist in 2002Kids watch anythingAdults watch anythingWhat's on this Death to Smoochy Blu-ray from Shout Factory?Death to Smoochy is now available on Blu-ray from Shout Factory Danny DeVito really loved this movie Randolph Smiley (Robin Williams), a once-beloved children's television host falls from grace after being caught in a bribery scandal. His replacement is Sheldon Mopes (Edward Norton), a naive and idealistic performer who takes on the persona of "Smoochy the Rhino," a character designed to be the epitome of wholesome, educational entertainment. As Smoochy becomes a sensation, Randolph becomes increasingly unhinged, plotting to destroy Smoochy and reclaim his spot in the limelight. The film follows Sheldon as he navigates the cutthroat world of children's television, dealing with corrupt executives, mobsters, and his own moral dilemmas. What unfolds is a darkly comedic tale of revenge, hypocrisy, and the price of integrity in a world driven by profit and fame. Robin Williams cuts loose At its core, Death to Smoochy is a satire of the entertainment industry, particularly the world of children’s television. The film explores themes of corruption, greed, and the loss of innocence, using the figure of Smoochy as a symbol of genuine goodness in a world that is anything but. The film’s humor is often dark and biting, taking aim at the hypocrisy and moral compromises that underpin the entertainment industry. The character of Randolph Smiley represents the fallen hero, a man who once embodied the values of children’s programming but has since been consumed by bitterness and a desire for revenge. His descent into madness is both tragic and comedic, as he becomes increasingly unhinged in his efforts to destroy Smoochy. Sheldon Mopes, on the other hand, is the idealistic newcomer who refuses to compromise his principles, even as he is surrounded by corruption and deceit. The film’s tension arises from the clash between Sheldon’s unwavering morality and the cynical reality of the industry he has entered. The film also touches on the idea of authenticity versus artifice. Smoochy the Rhino is portrayed as a character who genuinely cares about his audience and wants to make a positive impact, in stark contrast to the other characters who are motivated by greed and self-interest. This theme is reinforced by the film's visual style, which juxtaposes the bright, artificial world of Smoochy with the darker, grittier reality that lies beneath. Barney was really falling out of the Zeitgeist in 2002 Spare me a moment to talk about Barney. While bigger in the 90s, the early 00s saw this final big push to get Barney out of kids entertainment. Now, children are want to love whatever they love. But, something about public television being filled with costumed adults singing about love and friendliness really did a number on Post 9/11 America. It would be a few more years before Barney fell out of favor with the kids. But, it fostered the right environment for Death to Smoochy to exist. Kids watch anything For the young ones that still read things online, Barney was the source of a lot of parental rage back in the early 00s. If you don't have the time to head over to YouTube, here's the best way to explain it. Imagine if Elmo was larger and talked with the conversational depth of an amusement park mascot getting their brain roasted in the hot Florida sun. But, the show gave Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato their starts. So, thanks...I guess? While Death to Smoochy starts from the premise, it realizes that holds attention for all of 25 minutes and they expand into the motivations of Norton and Williams' characters. There's a lot to be said about the artistic process here and how individual personalities inform their characters. But, it's also a movie about a giant purple rhino getting killed. Adults watch anything Death to Smoochy was met with mixed reviews upon its release in 2002. Critics were divided on the film’s dark humor and satirical approach, with some praising its boldness and others finding it too offbeat for mainstream audiences. The film’s satirical take on the entertainment industry and children’s television was seen by some as too cynical, while others appreciated its willingness to push boundaries. Despite the mixed critical reception, Death to Smoochy found a niche audience that appreciated its unique blend of dark comedy and social commentary. Over time, the film has gained a cult following, with fans drawn to its irreverent humor, memorable performances, and the subversive take on a genre typically associated with light-hearted fare. What's on this Death to Smoochy Blu-ray from Shout Factory? Shout Factory as part of its Shout Select does right by Death to Smoochy. Long relegated to its ancient DVD release from Warner Brothers, Shout gives it a 20 year overdue glow-up on Blu-ray. There is a new 2024 4K restoration that makes the film look better than ever. Now, I saw it in theaters back in 2002, but I can't tell you any exact memories. Well, other than it opened up against the 20th anniversary re-release of E.T. with those CG walkie talkies. I also want to say Deuces Wild was playing in the theater next door, but not quite sure. You get a ton of new interviews, featurettes, bloopers, and deleted scenes. But those latter parts felt ported over. A lot of the special features feel ported over. However, the 1080p transfer and DTS-HD 5.1 master audio track feel true to their time. Death to Smoochy is a darkly comedic gem that continues to resonate with audiences more than two decades after its release. Its satirical exploration of the entertainment industry, combined with standout performances from Robin Williams and Edward Norton, make it a film worth revisiting. The recent Blu-ray release enhances the viewing experience with improved picture and sound quality, while the included special features provide valuable insights into the film's production and legacy. Death to Smoochy is now available on Blu-ray from Shout Factory

[nukethefridgenews]

Death to Smoochy Shout! Select Blu-ray Review: Viva La Smoochy

Death to Smoochy was a film not a film I loved when it came out, although the press junket was great. It was one of many private Robin Williams shows I was fortunate enough to attend, and a rare time Edward Norton wanted to talk about a film. I had not revisited it since then, so if it is beloved by at least enough people for Shout! Studios to market a new Blu-ray, I’d give it another shot. The…

[driveintheaterofthemind]

Arthouse Muppets (With Bonus Art Process)

Death To Smoochy featuring Kermit, Piggy And Fozzie

Art by Bruce McCorkindale

[capsarcastica]

Unfrosted Review

Jerry Seinfeld makes his film directing debut with a hilarious movie in the vein of Airplane! and Monty Python.

The plot is nonsensical, more a series of gags that all work. The group of scientists who have nothing to do with breakfast food, the Scarface-inspired sugar dealers, the Milk Man Mafia, the Cold War, the sentient pasta, the January 6th-inspired attack on Kellogg's. It shouldn't work but somehow it all comes together. Seinfeld is able to combine the off-the-wall humor of his sitcom and the zany antics of a classic Mel Brooks movie, almost like a better episode of Family Guy.

The entire cast is great. Everyone's trying to steal the spotlight so the energy is always there. The standouts are Jerry Seinfeld and Hugh Grant. Seinfeld has done so few fictional characters it's almost a surprise he does so well against more seasoned actors like Bill Burr's JFK. Grant channels Alan Rickman's Galaxy Quest character in a Death to Smoochy style subplot. There's a ton of fun cameos. The best is in the style of John Hurt's Spaceballs cameo.

The set design is also a lot of fun. Not quite as extreme as Barbie but definitely cartoonish.

It's nice to see an unserious comedy just have fun in the weirdest way possible. It's the kind of film to just sit back and enjoy.

[dolphs-world]

Get back

In the words of the 'Quack Pack' theme song "I feel like quackin' so I think I will". I have a lot of little thoughts I've jotted down in my notes so may as well fully fledge them. A little whiles back I picked up a DVD of 'Death to Smoochy', a Danny DeVito film with the late great Robin Williams and equally great Edward Norton. My mum has a DVD of 'Fight club' that is older than I am, it is one of the few movies I've watched as an adult over 2 times and each time it gets better. But somehow, despite owning it longer than I've existed my mother has never seen it so I rewatched it for a 6th time with my mum and I loved it even more. Now, I still have a lot of Fincher films to watch but after rewatching 'Gone Girl' I think 'Fight Club' is his best work. I need to read 'Gone Girl', my mum says it's better. I've read 'Fight Club' and I think the movie is better in every way except the stuff with Angelface, his name isn't even said in the film. 'Gone Girl' is a nice parallel to 'Fight Club', men v women, but it is also just as dated in technology. There's phones with buttons, TV is respected, CRT computers. The last of its era. 'Gone Girl' is really excelled by the actors being well known actors. None of them come across like they're trying to pivot their image but it's so weird seeing Madea as a lawyer. Affleck's and NPH's (not really EmRata but she is well known) performances benefit from their perceptions, Affleck as a shlub and NPH as a charming guy from less prestigious works. And then there's Rosamund Pike, a chameleon which works because she appears as an unknown actor, someone who never got their time in the spotlight. But the twist is really a one time amazing moment, unlike 'Fight Club'. Not to butcher Hegellian Dialectics but thesis, antithesis, synthesis; Tyler is cool, Tyler is bad, there are good aspects of Tyler (or broke, woke, bespoke). If you know 'Fight Club' well I don't need to expand upon the first two. I don't really relate entirely to many characters; Sonic, Tim Drake, Ron Stoppable; let alone at all. So it shocks me whenever I can really relate to someone, this time it was Edward Norton. Not in the ways you would expect and I'm not going to expand upon it, but the looking up to a strong male influence is one of these aspects. (sidenote: I think 'Fight Club' is one of the least homoerotic films I've seen which is surprising). The first scene with Tyler is perfect. Tyler is perfect as a tool for self reflection "How's being clever going for you?" "Why don't you just ask?". But that's all he should be, a tool for self-reflection. Having something only for men to form a brotherhood is good, hobbies are good, taking agency for your life is good, finding love is good. I think this is missed when viewing 'Fight Club' as a satire, there are good lessons for men buried in here but they can be dangerous when taken to the extreme. The only thing about the film that sucks is the ending "You met me at a very strange point in my life" and that love is the answer. They very much enable each other. Even if Tyler has changed, who's to say Marla will? And for a film so big on agency, why does Marla have none in the end? This was my attempt at a sort of disjointed flow, weaving back and forth between two works. Notice how I started with something unrelated? Here's my actual point about 'Death to Smoochy": I haven't seen it yet but I will soon. However, I have seen a scene from it where Robin Williams gets arrested. I saw this in a meme compilation. I've become a little addicted to these meme compilations, I think they are awful in a lot of ways. But how do these guys know about 'Death to Smoochy'? Who thought "I'll add the totally 'sigma' film, Death to Smoochy, a film with no insanely attractive characters I can project my power fantasy on to my meme compilation about how me and the boys are so totes mcgotes epic"? So bizarre!

[ryansmoviereviews]

Death to Smoochy (2002)

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Dir Danny DeVito Written by Adam Resnick Robin Williams, Edward Norton, Catherine Keener, Danny DeVito, Jon Stewart, Harvey Fierstein, Pam Ferris, Michael Rispoli, Danny Woodburn, Vincent Schiavelli. Rainbow Randolph Smiley (Williams) is the host of the popular kids program of the same name, who despite his loving on screen persona, is not so in real life. When he is caught in a bribe, he is…