Aristophanes: The Gods Are Laughing

What do you get when a bunch of 20th Century TV people try to make the life of an ancient playwright hip and sexy? A mess. If the idea was to teach people about the life of this prolific writer, they failed. They've turned him into a Greek Shecky Green. The show opens with Aristophanes on his death bed. He berates his son for not being funny (the son is a serious writer.) We are then transported back in time to follow Aristophanes as he deals with personal tragedy and adds jokes to his plays. It seems he has only one regret. He feels that a play he wrote caused the people to turn on Socrates (his friend) which lead to his trial and suicide. The only bright light in this production is Eddie Izzard's portrayal of a "too cool for school" Socrates. It may not be accurate but it sure is fun to watch.

I found this film unusual, definitely surrealist, and by the art direction alone, creative and quite beautiful. Set on a theatre stage, and with visits from historical and mythical characters, it is a sweet and touching film, with some interesting casting. Eddie Izzard was particularly superb. The story covers biographical details mingled with literary gems, and bundles of classical motifs and philosopy. Its anti-war message is particularly memorable, as is the overarching idea that the production of art is a noble aim, and comedy particularly, is a godly pursuit. The irony is that religious dogma is a definite enemy, causing the real sadness at the end of the tale.