The format will be a little different with this review, considering I felt that this film was in my Top 5 of the summer. ?Napoleon Dynamite? is about an Idaho teen who, with his dorky and uninviting persona takes us on a journey through his life as a high school student. Easily irritated and constantly annoyed with what seems every ioda of his life, Napoleon, in his own little world is convincingly bitter. He trudges on through life with his Internet-crazed older brother, perverted pathetic Uncle, and best (and only) friend Pedro, played by Efren Ramirez. The plot begins to take shape when Napoleon convinces Pedro to run against the stereotypical popular blonde girl (Haylie Duff) for school president.

Jared Hess, director and co-writer, develops a film that has many striking resemblances and subtle nuances to that of the Coen Brothers. He creates an wonderful cast of characters while the simplicity of the story keeps the audience more engaged with the relationships between the characters, as well as the characters themselves.

Jon Heder, who plays the title role, has created a character that will forever be emulated and carbon-copied in comedic cinema. Here?s a quick guarantee that besides Spiderman, Napoleon Dynamite will be a hot Halloween get-up this year. (He?ll do for ?ND? what Jesus did for ?The Big Lebowski?)

Bottom-Line: You really have to appreciate the styles of filmmakers such as the Coen Bros. to understand the comedy in this film. The hilarious antics of Napoleon Dynamite will leave you remembering and replaying scenes that at times were side-splitting. Plenty of quotable lines will find their way into your daily vernacular, as you might find yourself imitating Napoleon?s personality when faced with similar situations.

A-






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