Bruno is a spitball lobbed with deadly accuracy at homophobes, hicks, fake liberals, and pretty much anyone else in its comedic path. Raunchy and sure to shock, Bruno also comes with a message of tolerance, along with closeups of penises. That’s just the way I like my comedy, it’s got a message but it never preaches. If anything, Bruno is decidedly un-PC. Sascha Baron Cohen’s creation Bruno is a swishy Austrian fashion reporter out to become a star. From its pre-credit scene set to techno (the music is terrific), to a post credit song for peace and love, Bruno is a great way to spend 85 minutes or so. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a refreshing change from all the slob comedies and romantic comedies which lull me to sleep with their predictability and smarmy tone.

Bruno tells the tale of our hapless hero after he is canned from his Austrian fashion show and his quest to become a star. He comes to America with his faithful assistant and sets his sights on all kinds of targets high and low. Bruno may not be AS funny as Borat, but it’s just as deranged and at times, it’s a work of genius. Cohen’s best bits expose the hypocritical nature of Americans who may think they are tolerant, but underneath their veneer lies a dark homophobe ready to pop out. Republican presidential hopeful Ron Paul comes off especially bad in one scene (shocking to no one, I don’t think) and shouts out homophobic insults after being a victim of Bruno’s failed seduction. There’s more uncomfortable moments yet to come and Bruno’s trek through an army camp and especially Alabama’s creepy backwoods reveal America at its worst. We’ve come a lot farther on issues of race than on issues of sexuality, Bruno does a good job establishing that fact time and time again.

Bitingly funny, sometimes cringe-inducing, and always amusing, Bruno’s the best comedy of the year so far. I eagerly await an unrated DVD and the chance to see it again. Bruno holds up a mirror to the ugly American and reflects back some of our darkest tendencies. I’m just glad the mirror he uses probably looks great and comes from a world class designer. Encrusted in diamonds and made by D&G. Dolce and Gabbana……..Hello ?

Movie Grade: A-

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