Review of Canadian Bacon (1995) by Matt B — 20 Aug 2007

Satire is most effective when it suspends belief to a point that no one takes the actual plot seriously, laughs at all of the characters and environments, and recognizes the general theme. For some reason, Michael Moore captures it beautifully in this film. It is surprising in that nothing he did before or since comes even close. In fact, the arguments made in this film regarding the externalities of the military-industrial complex are far more proven through this well-crafted comedy than any of his harebrained documentaries.

Of course, it helps when you have great actors giving relaxed performances designed primarily to entertain, not preach. John Candy's portrayal of the American Joe Six-Pack showcases the best (and worst) in outside stereotypes of the American people. Rea Pearlman impresses equally as his wife. The best performance of them all, however, is Alan Alda as the President in the only way he could do it without anyone questioning his credibility (did you really think they would choose Hawkeye to win the election on The West Wing).

If you even think about dropping a Hamilton at the multiplex to see "Sicko" or take your Blockbuster coupon to rent "Fahrenheit 9/11", save yourself the intellectual embarrassment and rent this instead.