hanshan

I saw the second Vern Troyer guest episode (Oct 99) of Shasta McNasty and my friends and I all loved it. I didn't know this guy can act really well!! -(And, no, I didn't make it a priority to see Austin Powers 2). Troyer's character is just great. (I don't even watch sitcoms! But this was just great, so maybe I ought to be more open-minded.) This is the episode that opens with Troyer as a buddy of the regular cast characters, and they come across him working as a crab-cracker at a crabhouse (he gets on the table, slips a plastic bag over foot, and smashes crab claw for customer). As caring friends, they are aghast, and tell him that they feel he deserves more dignity than that! Then there's some stage talent competition as the informal entertainment at this restaurant, which Troyer and his friend jump in to improvise and win - which starts a fight with someone who's jealous... Troyer's character beams him beautifully well, and they all realize that a new career as boxer is begun... Troyer's character loves the idea... soon they are all taking bets, there's ring-girl humor from both male and female perspectives, etc... they search for contenders, which brings more than they bargain for. Troyer's character learns to work out the wrong way, and the right way (both with a number of twists on traditional methods that are hysterically funny). The whole 1/2 hour was just a scream, and at the same time VERY human, very practical straight-shootin' earthy humor, dealing with little people, man-woman, etc. life issues universal to everyone, while keeping you laughing and riveted on the sitcom level. Included great site-gag spoofs on many well-known films (rocky, pulp fiction, etc.).....--- I sure hope this is rebroadcast! ......(& if anyone knows if/when, please email ).

Culture clash ending in mutual respect, with an understanding of BOTH cultures... good western action-adventure at the same time. Battle of wills and skills as Bronson butts heads with Mifune, who of course has all kinds of surprises Bronson's character has never seen. They are forced by circumstance to collaborate and travel together. Bronson the epitome of western tough and smart guy, in this case whose ethics are not always ivory soap; Mifune plays the epitome of determined, skilled, smart, ethical samurai knight type. Very funny watching them struggle with each other, surprise each other, and learn from each other... and deal with bordello, desert, etc. They have to retrieve the treasured sword and in the process chase down and fight a truly nasty slick cold fish. You'll end up liking Bronson and loving Mifune. Both actors did a wonderful classic job with this one!