On J List of Movie Reviews

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The Jerk (1979)

Rate: 8
Viewed: 6/06

Jerk
6/06: "I was born a poor black child."

So begins the story of Navin R. Johnson for The Jerk. It's a hysterically funny movie, and Steve Martin was born to play the role. However, it would've been a perfect '10' if the final fifteen minutes hadn't collapsed so badly.

Witty dialogue is peppered throughout which is full of ingeniousness. The comedy touches a lot of areas rather than just a single one. I like the characters, and there are many of them who are wacky.

One aspect that I appreciate is how innocuous Navin R. Johnson is and no mockery is made out of him. Mainly, it portrays him as an honest person with good intentions. It's why I prefer this movie over Forrest Gump.

All in all, The Jerk would begin the long string of Steve Martin's great comedies.