Deconstructing Sandler: An Introduction

 

                For years I have been wondering: “Why are hard-working American putting down $9 to see Adam Sandler as the same lame character, with the same stupid jokes, with the beautiful actress who is looking for a big paycheck?”  Well, for the next few months I am going to try to examine why.

                Adam Sandler started as a regular cast member on SNL then graduated to feature films, if that is what you want to call them.  Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore made him a star to my generation.  Poop & fart jokes and relatively safe dialogue galore.  While most stars somewhat evolve over time, Sandler believes that an occasional “art” picture is to appease critics and educated audiences.  Sure, Sandler has wonderful Punch Drunk Love but he also has the unbelievably offensive I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry.

                That said, I have decided to watch all of Sandler’s movies.  From Airheads (1993) to this year’s That’s My Son, I will analyze each movie based on not just quality.  I will also look at:

Best Joke: Simple, what joke made me laugh the most.

Worst Joke: Not that simple.  I look for the joke that makes me either cringe or visually angry.

Love Interest: Is this someone who could possibly be attracted to Sandler’s character, physically or emotionally?

Character: Is Sandler’s character lovable, hateful or even really a character at all?

Message: Sandler’s movies are known for their messages.  Is the message relevant and/or earned?

Wish me luck!  Thoughts and prayers would help too!