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theory

"Department Store" (1986): Underappreciated Stunt Comedy?

Alright, folks, hear me out. I stumbled across this weirdo movie called "Department Store" (1986) the other day. It's basically a bunch of random skits set in, you guessed it, a department store. No real plot to speak of, just gag after gag. At first, I was like, "meh," but then I started noticing some seriously impressive physical comedy happening. These guys were taking bumps and doing pratfalls that put some big-budget action flicks to shame! I swear some of the falls they take on the escalators and the way they're interact with the displays, it's real. I mean, nobody's pretending this is gonna win any Oscars, but the dedication to the physical aspect is kinda wild. Like, that scene with the mannequin falling on the guy, the way he reacted was hilarious but too real at times. Maybe the director didn't have a budget for safety pads, or maybe these guys were just insane! Either way, I'm starting to think there's a hidden level of stunt work going on in this movie that no one talks about. We're too busy focusing on the lack of story to notice the actual performers risking life and limb. So here's my theory: "Department Store" (1986) is low-key a stuntman's showcase, masked as a silly sketch comedy. The lack of recognition isn't because it's bad, it's because no one's looking at it the right way. It's got that raw, unfiltered energy, like watching a bunch of friends mess around and film it. The practical effects and physical antics, particularly the falls, are the real stars of the show and really do add to the comedy. I'm gonna rewatch it and see if I can catch any other details. Maybe it's just me seeing things, but I'm convinced there's more to this movie than meets the eye. Anyone else seen this thing? Tell me I'm not crazy! Or, tell me and point out the movie's actually terrible I guess lol.

mikecinema
5 months ago
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