Freaks, Geeks, and Mensches-Pierzchala
Monday, September 27th, 2010Today’s reading, titled “Freaks, Geeks, and Mensches” was quite possibly my favorite to date. This is so because it is very relatable for people in the college-aged demographic. The article, by Alex Wainer, is more or less a summary followed by analysis of Judd Apatow’s two famous videos, “Knocked Up” and “40-Year Old Virgin.” The article goes into detail about the evolutionary role of lead male actors in films. The role has evolved from the 50’s hero, to the 60’s rebel, to the 70’s swinger, to the 80’s action hero, to today’s premature adult male. The two films tell a very similar story about a lead male character who has certain very childish and immature characteristics which he must overcome to get what he wants and ultimately grow up. In “Knocked Up” the main character must overcome his childish dependency on drugs and porn in order to grow into the man his pregnant girlfriend needs him to be. Similarly, the lead role in “40-Year Old Virgin” must overcome his fear of physical intimacy and youthful infatuation with action figures in order to end up with the women he loves.
I feel this article’s author, Alex Wainer, is definitely onto something in his writing. He does an interesting analysis into the theme and idea behind two of the most famous and hilarious films of today. I feel he is spot on with his claim that today’s main male role is that of an immature, “slackerish” young man. The really interesting thing about this analysis is that it draws a deeper meaning to these comedic films. While these movies are hilarious and don’t necessarily ask viewers to dig deeper into the main idea driving the plot, the definitely offer people an inspiring life lesson on personal fulfillment. Apatow is extremely successful at conveying a message to viewers without blatantly throwing his ideals at them. He does this in an interesting and comedic way that keeps audiences hooked and laughing the entire time. This article also makes me wonder what the next evolutionary stage for male lead roles will pan out to be. Also, it inspires wonder as to when this shift will occur.