On July 4th, as we spend time with our families and celebrate the holiday, we need to laugh. In my opinion “Biloxi Blues” is one of the funniest movies of the ‘80s and because it was not an ‘80s movie it is sometimes forgotten (‘80s movies are a specific formula/genre).
“Biloxi Blues” is based on Neil Simon’s play and takes place in WWII.
The story is centered around the experiences of Pvt. Eugene M. Jerome (Matthew Broderick), and a fantastic supporting cast of unknowns equally as funny under the direction of Oscar-winner Mike Nichols (“The Graduate”).
The movie also has one of the best performances of his career by one of the greatest character actors, Christopher Walken, who plays Sgt. Twoomey.
The entire movie takes place during the bootcamp experience, but unlike “Full Metal Jacket” (my June 20 rental review). This is a comical side of the Army. The script is air-tight with probably the most one-liners I’ve ever heard in a movie. You have to be on top of this movie with your ears and funny bone ready to be hit.
There are also some deeper messages in the movie about life, standing up for yourself and growing into manhood. The film was one of Broderick’s first serious (although comedic) roles after his smash hit and cult classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (I highly recommend it).
The story takes place in Biloxi, Miss., and although the word “Blues” is in the title, this movie is purely fun. I’ve seen this movie 50 to 100 times since I was a child.
As we celebrate a holiday that involved war, we need to look at the funny side of war movies. Life’s too short. I can guarantee you’ll enjoy this movie and people of all ages can enjoy this movie. I do suggest adult supervision due to language and themes.
All movies in the top 10 are at the Lihu‘e Public Library.
Year: 1988
Director: Mike Nichols
Starring: Matthew Broderick, Christopher Walken
1. Can She Bake a Cherry Pie? (1983)
2. Uncommon Valor (1983)
3. In the Line of Fire (1993)
4. Braveheart (1995)
5. Austin Powers (1997)
6. Wonderboys (2000)
7. Drumline (2002)
8. National Treasure (2004)
9. Death at a Funeral (2007)
10. Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
