What's Happening?
Bobby Farrelly, known for directing popular comedies like 'There's Something About Mary' and 'Dumb and Dumber,' is set to premiere his new R-rated comedy 'Driver's Ed' at the Toronto Film Festival. Farrelly believes that the decline in big-screen comedies is due to studios avoiding risks associated with politically incorrect humor. He hopes to bring back the genre by showcasing barrier-breaking humor in 'Driver's Ed,' which follows a high school student stealing his driver's ed teacher's car. The film features actors like Sam Nivola, Molly Shannon, and Kumail Nanjiani, and was produced outside the studio system on an indie budget.
Why It's Important?
The revival of R-rated comedies could signal a shift in Hollywood's approach to humor, potentially leading to more diverse and daring comedic content. This could impact the film industry by encouraging studios to take risks on projects that push boundaries, appealing to audiences seeking entertainment that challenges norms. The success of 'Driver's Ed' could pave the way for more independent films to gain traction, influencing the types of comedies produced and distributed in the future.
What's Next?
If 'Driver's Ed' performs well at the Toronto Film Festival, it may secure distribution, potentially leading to a wider release. This could encourage other filmmakers to pursue similar projects, contributing to a resurgence of R-rated comedies. Additionally, Bobby Farrelly and his brother Peter are collaborating on a musical version of 'There's Something About Mary,' which could further influence the comedy genre.
