Review of Strange Brew (1983) by Rj M — 06 Nov 2008

In the realm of comedy duos, everyone knows Wayne & Garth, Jake & Elwood, and Cheech & Chong. But fewer are familiar with the MacKenzie brothers, Bob & Doug. The greatest thing to come out of SNL wannabe SCTV were the beer loving brothers from Canada, eh.

Here's their starring vehicle, an irreverent spin on Hamlet, set in a brewery in the heart of Canada. One of the most quotable comedies ever, it's a non-stop gagfest as the brothers stumble unknowingly through a sinister plot by Brewmeister Smith (Max Von Sydow) to beer tainted with a mind controlling drug to the thirsty revellers at Oktoberfest.

Dave Thomas and Rick Moranis not only reprise their roles from their SCTV skits, they also co-wrote and co-directed the movie. They are two of the most likeable characters you'll ever see. They may be clueless, but you'd never be able to convince them of that.

Their love of all things Canadian, beer, back bacon, and Hockey, know no bounds, and they are put on full display. One of the best team ups to break out of the late night tv genres, one can only hope the planned animated series will be just as fun.

One viewing and you'll be singing their signature them song for the rest of the day, as well as adopting a Canadian accent for no good reason. Take off, eh!