If you don’t have access to Roku, you probably missed the offbeat screen biography of Weird Al Yankovic.
A parody of biopics, “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” gives Daniel Radcliffe a role no one must have thought he could play.
But, darn, if he doesn’t make it work. Approaching the parodist’s career with great gusto, he gets buy-in and helps sell “Weird” like a salesman peddling accordions door-to-door.
The film has all the touchstones: a tough childhood, a cruel manager and a gold-digging girlfriend. But it’s evident from one of the first scenes, this is tongue-in-cheek humor. Lin-Manuel Miranda as a doctor? (Of course, he’s a big fan.) Rainn Wilson as Dr. Demento? (Why not? Even though he looks more like EPCOT’s Dreamfinder.) Toss in Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna, Quinta Brunson as Oprah, Conan O’Brien as Andy Warhol and the real Al as a record exec and it’s clear director Eric Appel wanted to have as much fun as the folks behind “I, Tonya” or “Pam and Tommy.”
Quinta Brunson and Daniel Radcliffe star in "Weird" as Oprah and Weird Al Yankovic.
“Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” has enough truth to keep you guessing how certain aspects should play out. His parody of “My Sharona,” for example, came while making bologna sandwiches for friends. His “Eat It” was an original song – one that would pull him out of a field of wannabes – but Michael Jackson released his version, “Beat It,” before Al could hit the marketplace.
The screenplay, written by Appel and Yankovic, has a loopy way of moving the needle. It puts Al in weird situations (an encounter with Pablo Escobar, for example), then shows how he worms his way out. When success hits, he’s approached by Madonna (Evan Rachel Wood), who may just want the attention that comes from being the object of a song parody. Wood poses appropriately and isn’t afraid to make the Material Girl look even more material.
The big laughs, though, come at a party where Wolfman Jack (Jack Black) issues a challenge. Around a pool filled with lesser celebrities (Tiny Tim, Pee-wee Herman, Divine), Al delivers. Trying to figure out who’s in the mix is just part of the fun that never seems to let up.
“Weird” gives its version of Al’s concerts and shows what happens when he receives an award for being the greatest whatever. There’s laughter at every turn and a great, gung-ho performance by Radcliffe.
Considering he knows what it’s like to be identified as a character, he can heighten moments better than most. He sells the relationship with Madonna, too, and makes you want to see an Al & Dan show that would let them try to out-weird each other.
Appel makes sure the film moves (even when it turns dark) and lets stray characters (like Al’s roommates) shine in little bits throughout the journey.
“Weird” may not be for everyone, but it never assumes the audience knows anything. That’s why the ride is so enjoyable. Hop aboard and you might just be part of the posse who’s bringing polka back.
Daniel Radcliffe, left, plays Weird Al Yankovic, right, in "Weird."
'Stand By Me' holds up
Just in time for Christmas: A 4K edition of "Stand By Me" comes out this week and it's one that will pop for just about everyone in the family.
For the folks, it's a deep nostalgia wallow.
For the kids, it's a look at the bonds of friendship.
And, for film fans, it's proof you can make a great film under two hours.
Rob Reiner directed River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman and Jerry O'Connell in a touching story of discovery when they go in search of a missing teen's body. They go on a two-day trek and learn plenty about themselves and how tough they really are.
While it's fun to see Kiefer Sutherland turn up as a tough guy, it's astounding to note this came from a Stephen King short story. The film bubbles with emotion and reminds us some of the best acting has come from those who aren't even old enough to vote.
Movie critic Bruce Miller says "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story" is a parody of biographies. There’s probably not a shred of truth in the screen biography, but that’s OK. This is “I, Tonya” for a generation that grew up on “My Bologna,” “I Love Rocky Road” and “Like a Surgeon.”
