Dont'cha Just Hate Sand In Your Crotch? [The Beach Bum film review]

Filmed in a loose, yet heightened cinema verite style (or a faux Dogma 95 style, if you prefer), this film reminds me of a less slick version of Surfer Dude. In both films Matthew McConaughey portrays a once famous, now aimless beach bred individual (here he’s a once revered poet) and spends the bulk of the film getting stoned and participating in wayward hijinks. While the thin story line centers around Moondog (McConaughey’s character) becoming something of a responsible adult (the story is really like a tweaker’s version of Brewster’s Millions) it’s loose and rambling style can be distracting. Much of the film feels as if director Harmony Korine gave the cast a rudimentary outline, told them to get wasted, and just wing it. While it can be endearing at times, mostly due to McConaughey’s sheer charisma and dynamic acting, the borderline linear directing style can be off-putting and tiresome. Additionally, the inclusion of obvious non-actors, while giving the film a slight sense of “authenticity” also felt manipulative and, well, fake; it was like the director and professional actors were pandering to the locals by including them in the film, but also making fun of them in an underhanded way. Yet despite it’s faux documentary vibe, the film is still a slick, somewhat Hollywood-styled endeavor.

While McConaughey completely dominates the screen Isla Fisher goes for broke and almost rivals him. However, the surprise turn comes in the form of former Disney heartthrob Zac Efron, whose self-destructive Born Again Christian character Flicker lends some hell raising hilarity to the proceedings. And Martin Lawrence ain’t too shabby either. The only weak link amongst the thespians is Snoop Dogg. Dude may be a stellar rapper, but when placed next to McConaughey and the rest of the cast it becomes apparent that he’s not a very good actor.

In retrospect, methinks the The Beach Bum might be enhanced if one were to view it in a haze of some kind, taking after the characters in the film, no less.

RATING: 2.5 / 5 

RIYL: Spring Breakers; Surfer Dude;