Cheap Death to Smoochy (Widescreen Edition) (DVD) (Robin Williams, Edward Norton) (Danny DeVito) Price

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Customer Reviews of Death to Smoochy (Widescreen Edition)

Weird, twisted humor is hit-and-miss
Those of you who are used to Robin Williams playing straight forward comedy roles ('Mrs. Doubtfire' and 'Jack') may be a bit shocked with his performance here. You first see Williams as the lovable, kid-friendly Rainbow Randolph. On screen he appears amiable, but once you see him cutting a deal with the parents of a child (who wants to dance on his show) he instantly becomes the bad guy. From the start, 'Death To Smoochy' is a very unique movie. I'm not too sure if it's supposed to be a comedy or a drama or both; which in turn confused me on the seriousness of the film. Alongside Williams is 'Fight Club' star Edward Norton. In this role (as the title character) he really steals the show. He, unlike Randolph, is a pure children's entertainer. And that spawns for quite the war between Randolph and Smoochy.

Once Rainbow Randolph loses his primetime TV spot, studio executives (Catherine Keener and Jon Stewart) scramble to find a replacement. They stumble upon Smoochy. Smoochy is basically a latter day, 2002 version of Barney. The man behind (inside) Smoochy is Sheldon Mopes, who is the epitome of nice people. Everything he does is pleasant; even though everyone keeps putting him down and trying to change his Smoochy routine. The plot of the film is based on Randolph getting his 'revenge' on Smoochy... hence the title. The comedy within the plot is pretty much hit-and-miss. And the drama/action sequences are very weak as far as actions and dramas go. Had it not been for the acting of both Williams and Norton, this movie would've been horrible. I have to say that Williams using the f-word about a millions times did become a little uncomfortable, though. It might have actually been better if the movie was PG-13. But that's neither here nor there. There are too many aspects of 'Death To Smoochy' that make it shaky as a film. At times, Danny DeVito's plot and direction seemed to want to be too original. Everything about the movie--the plot, Jon Stewart's haircut, Williams' vulgar rants, the drama--was out of place to the point of disturbing. I really had a hard time getting into, and enjoying, the film. But as I said the comedy was hit-and-miss, so a few spots were bright. I did enjoy the young girl who approached Randolph at the point of him trying to kill himself. That part was actually funny and smart; I won't ruin it for you. The ending was also superb; and probably made this movie worthwhile. I will say I thought DeVito should've kept his name out of the cast list. His appearance was unmemorable and probably could've been played better by someone else. Nevertheless his many fans will probably enjoy it.

By this point I think I've said enough about the movie. I don't like to ruin things for people. I think it's safe to say if you enjoy dark, twisted comedies that you'll like, maybe even love 'Death To Smoochy'. The acting by Robin Williams and Edward Norton give the film some noble appeal. But it's really only those two actors who stand out as 'good' performers. The plot is definitely original; you will not find another movie even comparable to this. I'd classify it as a mix between those infamous Barney TV shows and, well... 'Psycho'. Scratch that. Whatever my opinions, you should certainly watch this movie. Only then can you decide if its perverse, sickened comedy clashes well with your movie tastes.

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Okay, boys, lets go pray and get sh*tfaced!
After critics panned this film, I waited until it was out on DVD before I watched it. I will never listen to a critic again. This was an insanely funny film, with some of the best one-liners ever. The Irish mafia (and Spinner) were some of the great highlights of the film! I highly recommend seeing this movie, especially if you like films like "Heathers" - the darker comedies.

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Dark Comedy benefits Terrific Comedic Performances.
After being fired, An Selazy Ex-Host (Oscar-WInner:Robin Williams) of a Popular T.V Kids Show Host tries to plot a Revenge against his Barney-Like replacement (Edward Norton). This guy, who's is ultra sincere doesn't know that his bosses or the people he trusts are corrupted and are exploiting him.

Directed by Danny DeVito (Matilda, Throw Mamma Out of the Train, War of the Roses) made a amusing dark comedy that is not for everyone's taste because of the Vulgarity Subject Matter. Williams is fun in his often crude role. Norton is surprisingly amusing as the mild-mannered folksinger. This was One of the Biggest Box Office Disappointment of 2002 but it's centainly more successful on Video. Do not miss this often darkly hilarious film. Written by Adam Resnick (Lucky Numbers). Grade:A-.