This film doesn't know what it wants to be, and it certainly isn't what it says it is.
First, it isn't about lying, as much as it is Gervais' opportunity to preach his gospel. Yes, this is an evangelical atheist film. And that fine, if that is what he wants it to be. But don't deceive people into saying it is a comedy about lying, then use that as an opportunity to harass, insult, and bully people who share a different belief system. Because that is what the film does for a majority of the time. And what is ironic is that toward the end of the film is a scene where a young boy with an ice cream cone is harassed by other boys--and the film points out everything that is wrong with this. But then the film in its essence is doing EXACTLY that to Christians.
Second, apparently lying is also tied to tact according to this film. People blurt out whatever they are thinking--even without being asked. That's not lying--that's tact. It one thing to tell the truth. It's another to simply tell everyone on the street the first thing that pops into your head.
Third, the film isn't very funny--and I like dry British wit. But as I said, this is about poking fun at people more than anything, and that isn't really that funny, at least not for long.
Finally, what is this film really about? The first act is about the only man in the world who has learned to lie, and how that helps him get ahead. Then act two is suddenly about poking fun at religion, as I said. Then act three is a romantic comedy (but very dark comedy) is about romance and the less desirable guy getting the hot girl.
As you can see, there is a lot of opportunity in this film, but the parts just didn't connect for me.
First, it isn't about lying, as much as it is Gervais' opportunity to preach his gospel. Yes, this is an evangelical atheist film. And that fine, if that is what he wants it to be. But don't deceive people into saying it is a comedy about lying, then use that as an opportunity to harass, insult, and bully people who share a different belief system. Because that is what the film does for a majority of the time. And what is ironic is that toward the end of the film is a scene where a young boy with an ice cream cone is harassed by other boys--and the film points out everything that is wrong with this. But then the film in its essence is doing EXACTLY that to Christians.
Second, apparently lying is also tied to tact according to this film. People blurt out whatever they are thinking--even without being asked. That's not lying--that's tact. It one thing to tell the truth. It's another to simply tell everyone on the street the first thing that pops into your head.
Third, the film isn't very funny--and I like dry British wit. But as I said, this is about poking fun at people more than anything, and that isn't really that funny, at least not for long.
Finally, what is this film really about? The first act is about the only man in the world who has learned to lie, and how that helps him get ahead. Then act two is suddenly about poking fun at religion, as I said. Then act three is a romantic comedy (but very dark comedy) is about romance and the less desirable guy getting the hot girl.
As you can see, there is a lot of opportunity in this film, but the parts just didn't connect for me.