Writer-director Albert Brooks tries to assist the United States government in easing tensions between America and the Middle East in LOOKING FOR COMEDY IN THE MUSLIM WORLD. Brooks, playing himself, is called on by a special committee on US foreign affairs to help bridge the tension gap between the United States and the Muslim world. The committee requests that Brooks visit India and Pakistan, and write a 500-page report on what makes members of the Muslim faith laugh.
LOOKING FOR COMEDY IN THE MUSLIM WORLD has all the marks of a Brooks’ comedy, but unlike most of his works, it doesn’t go anywhere. Much of the humor works, but its small chuckles not big laughs, and it relies on more plot than standard Brooks fare. I liked Brooks’ idea of playing himself in the lead role. This enables the comedian more laughs and comedic situations, and helps to play off other real people, places and events. The insecurities and doubts he has when he reaches the Middle East, are all confirmed when the citizens either don’t get, or more humorously, don’t like his jokes. These situations are sustained for much of the film, before Brooks must begin to tie his overseas experiences into one cohesive story. LOOKING FOR COMEDY IN THE MUSLIM WORLD is a mildly amusing movie, that doesn’t quite pull its premise off.
Grade: C
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