...see what I did there? I used the title to imply the film was not only hysterical, but also about "heavy" people--a classic play on words...
Anyway, Heavyweights is definitely among my favorite kids movies of all time--right up there with the incomparable splendor that is "Hook."
Heavyweights was released in the mid-90's, a time when the politically correct crusaders were out in full force demanding we think about everything we say and make damn sure we don't let one word slide out that may offend someone (Sad that this has only gotten worse...). Upon its release there was an outcry from various different family oriented groups that making fun of fat kids was crossing the line.
However, if you watch Heavyweights you'll find, quite quickly, that making fun of fat kids is not the intention of the film. Its an upbeat, comedy about dealing with being different. The dialouge of the film is surprisingly edgey and sharp witted for being a Walt Disney Production. I was not surprised to find out, years after seeing this for the first time, that Judd Apatow was one of the writers on the film. As a 23 year old, I can still watch this movie and find myself laughing out loud at various points throughout the film.
...."but Minjoe, what has you laughing so hard about this movie? I mean its not that great."
Ben. Stiller.
For those of you who saw Dodgeball, you may remember finding Stillers character as the crazy intense body-builder to be rather comical. Well, if you have not yet seen Heavyweights, you may wish to do so simply to see the origin of Stillers Dodgeball character. As Tony Prekis, Stiller gives a widly underrated performance full of comedic goodies. His opening monolouge, where he tries to rally the children of camp hope to get behind his new regime, leaves me literally on the verge of tears everytime. In short, he committed everything he had to the role and it paid off big.
...and Stiller was not alone...
The entire cast of Heavyweights puts all of their hearts into the project so it comes off as genuine, heart felt, and incredibly funny.
If you're looking for a good laugh without having to think too hard, check out Heavyweights and see what you've been missing.