Rollie Nichols
Staff Writer
Johnny Depp’s newest endeavor to find the lost painting by Francisco Goya leads to a tragically unimpressive new film, “Mortdecai”.
Depp’s failed comedy with a semi-original, yet mediocre plot combined with childish effects, and lack of believable acting makes “Mortdecai” one of Depp’s least exciting films.
Inspector Mortdecai (Depp) is called upon by the british Mi5 to find a missing Goya painting said to have codes to german banks inscribed on the back. Depp’s adventures take him from England to Russia, and Los Angeles where his royally entitled demeanor and drunken character make Mortdecai the sloppiest, yet most talented detective around.
Mortdecai is supposed to be the comedic aspect of the film but sadly fails to follow through. Depp has wowed audiences with his versatility and skill as an actor, but this reputation is not upheld during his portrayal of “Mortdecai”.
Depp’s almost non-existent humor in this film is most commonly dry, sarcastic humor made with witty remarks pertaining to the particular scene. Depp lacks the ability to bring a humorous aspect to his character because his jokes are stale and almost always revolve around sex, which proves to be a major flaw throughout the film.
“Mortdecai” is a mystery film with an artistic and comedic twist to it, making it unique in some ways, but overwhelmingly sophomoric and ridiculous in others. The immaturity that this film incorporates makes it uninteresting and not appealing to an older more sophisticated audience. Although “Mortdecai’s” target audience is teens and adults, the film is like a children’s version of “National Treasure”.
Mortdecai’s only comedic aspects to the film are his vulgar jokes and sexual references. Without the explicit and inappropriate content, the film would be unwatchable. The jokes are mainly based on Mortdecai’s romantic relationship with Johanna (Gwyneth Paltrow) and their troubled marriage due to bankruptcy.
The plot takes a lot of confusing twists and turns, making it less believable as the film progresses. Along with the odd plot, the poor special effects and graphics make transitions between scenes awkward and the unreasonably large explosions make the film even more childish.
Mortdecai’s wife Johanna (Gwyneth Paltrow), fails as well to make this movie believable as her forced acting and lack of emotion or fluidity make it unpleasing to watch. Paltrow’s performance in “Mortdecai” is not sub par and her numerous unnecessary half-naked and sexual scenes do not make up for it.
“Mortdecai” is unsuccessful in all aspects of a quality film with stale jokes and an unoriginal plot, combined with emotionless acting.
“Mortdecai” is rated PG-13 and is playing in theaters nationwide.
Leave a Reply