I watched The ‘Burbs and I liked it. 3.5/5
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“The ‘Burbs” (1989) is a dark comedy directed by Joe Dante, known for his quirky and imaginative films. Starring Tom Hanks, Bruce Dern, and Carrie Fisher, the movie dives into the peculiar lives of suburban neighbors, blending humor with a touch of mystery.
Set in a seemingly peaceful suburban neighborhood, the film unravels when the new, mysterious Klopek family moves in. Their odd behavior and reclusive nature quickly ignite the suspicions of their neighbors, especially Ray Peterson, played by Tom Hanks, who is convinced they are involved in foul play. Together with his friends, Art (Rick Ducommun) and Rumsfield (Bruce Dern), they embark on a comically misguided mission to uncover the truth.
Visually, “The ‘Burbs” captures the essence of suburban life with a slightly exaggerated, almost surreal touch. The meticulous set design and cinematography play with the contrast between the perfectly manicured lawns and the growing paranoia that consumes the characters. Dante’s direction brings out the absurdity in everyday situations, giving the film a distinct and memorable aesthetic.
The performances are a mixed bag. Tom Hanks, as always, brings his affable charm to the role of Ray Peterson. His descent from skepticism to full-blown obsession is portrayed with Hanks’ signature comedic timing. Rick Ducommun and Bruce Dern provide solid support, injecting their own unique brand of humor into the mix. However, some of the secondary characters feel a tad one-dimensional, bordering on caricature.
The film’s humor is where it shines brightest. Dante and screenwriter Dana Olsen masterfully weave together a blend of dark and slapstick comedy. The absurdity of the situations that the characters find themselves in is a constant source of amusement. From failed stakeouts to ill-conceived plans, the film revels in its farcical nature.
Yet, the plot occasionally stumbles in its pacing. There are moments where the narrative lags, struggling to maintain the initial energy and intrigue. The film’s climax, while fittingly chaotic, might feel rushed and lacking the buildup that such a crescendo demands.
“The ‘Burbs” also grapples with a tonal balancing act. It flits between slapstick humor and moments of genuine suspense, occasionally struggling to find a seamless blend. This can lead to a slight disjointedness, where the comedic and suspenseful elements seem to occupy separate spheres rather than coalesce into a seamless whole.
However, where “The ‘Burbs” truly excels is in its exploration of suburban paranoia and the tendency to assume the worst about those who are different. It cleverly satirizes the idyllic facade of suburban life, hinting at the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface. The film doesn’t shy away from poking fun at societal norms and the absurdity of neighborly relations.
In conclusion, “The ‘Burbs” is a darkly comedic foray into suburban eccentricity. With its visually striking portrayal of idyllic neighborhoods and quirky characters, it offers a unique cinematic experience. Tom Hanks leads a capable cast in a tale that masterfully blends humor with suspense, although it occasionally falters in pacing and tonal consistency. Its exploration of suburban paranoia and societal norms adds an extra layer of depth. While not without its flaws, “The ‘Burbs” remains an engaging and entertaining watch, earning its place as a cult classic in the realm of dark comedies.