“What About Mary,” at its core, is a surprisingly tender exploration of unrequited love and the comedic lengths people will go to in pursuit of it. While often remembered for its outrageous and sometimes offensive humor, the film’s enduring appeal lies in its portrayal of genuine, if misguided, affection and the relatable awkwardness of navigating romantic longing. It reveals how far people will stretch their boundaries, and their integrity, for even a glimmer of hope with the person they desire.
The Enduring Legacy of “What About Mary”
Released in 1998, “What About Mary” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, catapulting Ben Stiller and Cameron Diaz to superstardom and solidifying the Farrelly brothers’ reputation as masters of the raunchy comedy genre. But beyond the hair gel mishap and the zipper incident, lies a story about the complexities of attraction, the lengths we go to for love, and the potential pitfalls of idealizing someone. The film cleverly juxtaposes these themes with over-the-top humor, creating a comedic experience that, while not for the faint of heart, remains remarkably memorable. Its impact on the comedy landscape is undeniable, influencing a generation of filmmakers and comedians with its willingness to push boundaries and embrace the absurd. It’s more than just a collection of shocking moments; it’s a commentary on the human condition, albeit a very crude one.
Humor and Heart: Balancing the Outrageous
The brilliance (and some would argue, the downfall) of “What About Mary” lies in its ability to blend outrageous, often shocking humor with moments of genuine heart. The Farrelly brothers walk a tightrope, consistently pushing the boundaries of good taste while simultaneously reminding the audience that these characters, despite their flaws and sometimes deplorable actions, are driven by real desires and vulnerabilities. Ted, played by Ben Stiller, is not a villain; he’s a hopelessly infatuated, awkward individual who makes terrible decisions. Mary, portrayed by Cameron Diaz, is not a prize to be won; she’s a flawed but ultimately good-hearted woman seeking genuine connection. The humor, while undeniably crude, serves to highlight the absurdity of their situations and the lengths to which they’re willing to go.
Analyzing the Characters
The film’s success hinges on its memorable and often eccentric characters. Ted, the protagonist, is a sympathetic loser whose unwavering devotion to Mary, however misguided, endears him to the audience. Mary herself is more than just a romantic object; she’s a complex character with her own desires and insecurities. The supporting cast, including Dom Woganowski (Matt Dillon), Pat Healy (Matt Dillon), and Warren (W. Earl Brown), are equally memorable, each contributing to the film’s comedic chaos. Their motivations, while often selfish, are portrayed with a degree of humanity that prevents them from becoming mere caricatures.
Controversies and Criticisms
“What About Mary” is no stranger to controversy. Some critics have accused the film of being offensive and insensitive, citing its use of disability humor and its potentially harmful stereotypes. Others have praised the film for its willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. The film’s humor, while undeniably popular, is not for everyone, and its reliance on shock value has been a point of contention for many viewers. Understanding these criticisms is crucial to appreciating the film’s place in cinematic history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “What About Mary”
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the intricacies of “What About Mary”:
What is the central conflict in “What About Mary?”
The central conflict revolves around Ted Stroehmann’s persistent, often disastrous, attempts to win the affections of Mary Jensen, complicated by multiple other suitors vying for her attention, each employing equally dubious and often hilarious tactics. It is a battle for Mary’s affection played out through increasingly absurd and competitive displays.
What makes “What About Mary” a classic comedy?
Despite its controversial elements, “What About Mary” is considered a classic comedy due to its perfectly timed physical humor, memorable characters, quotable lines, and its willingness to push comedic boundaries. Its lasting cultural impact and continued relevance solidifies its position as a comedic landmark.
How does “What About Mary” reflect late 1990s culture?
The film reflects the late 1990s through its fashion, music, and its somewhat uninhibited approach to sexuality and relationships. Its humor, while often crude, resonated with an audience that was increasingly comfortable with shock value in entertainment.
Who directed “What About Mary?”
“What About Mary” was directed by Bobby and Peter Farrelly, the duo known for other successful raunchy comedies such as “Dumb and Dumber” and “There’s Something About Mary.” Their signature style is characterized by over-the-top humor and often controversial subject matter.
What is the significance of the “hair gel” scene?
The “hair gel” scene, involving Ted mistakenly using semen as hair gel, is arguably the film’s most infamous moment. It exemplifies the film’s commitment to outrageous humor and serves as a turning point in the narrative, showcasing the lengths Ted will go to in his pursuit of Mary.
How does the film portray Mary’s character?
Mary is portrayed as a kind, intelligent, and independent woman who is oblivious to the extent of Ted’s obsession and the competition for her affections. She is not simply a damsel in distress but a character with her own goals and desires, even though these are often overshadowed by the comedic chaos surrounding her.
Was there any improvisation in the film?
While the script was tightly written, there was reportedly room for improvisation on set. Ben Stiller, in particular, is known for his comedic improv skills, and it is likely that some of the film’s most memorable moments were born out of spontaneous creativity.
How did “What About Mary” impact Cameron Diaz’s career?
“What About Mary” significantly boosted Cameron Diaz’s career, establishing her as a comedic leading lady. Her performance as Mary showcased her comedic timing and her ability to portray both sweetness and physical comedy, leading to a string of successful roles in the years that followed.
What are some of the recurring themes in the film?
Recurring themes include unrequited love, obsession, the absurdity of human behavior, the contrast between outward appearances and inner feelings, and the lengths people will go to for love, even when those lengths are ethically questionable.
Are there any sequels or spin-offs to “What About Mary?”
While there were rumors of potential sequels, none have materialized. However, the film’s success inspired a number of similarly themed comedies in the years that followed, cementing its influence on the romantic comedy genre.
What are the ethical concerns surrounding some of the humor in the film?
The film’s use of disability humor and potentially harmful stereotypes has raised ethical concerns. Some critics argue that the film perpetuates harmful representations and trivializes serious issues, while others argue that the humor is intended to be satirical and does not necessarily endorse these views. The ethical debate surrounding the film remains ongoing.
What is the overall message of “What About Mary?”
Despite its crude humor, “What About Mary” ultimately suggests that genuine connection and self-acceptance are more important than pursuing an idealized version of love. The characters learn (or fail to learn) that being true to themselves and accepting others for who they are is more rewarding than engaging in manipulative or deceitful behavior. The underlying message, however subtle, revolves around the importance of authenticity in relationships.