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MVP: Most Valuable Primate

MVP: Most Valuable Primate (2000)

Aug 11, 2000 1h 33m Comedy Family

Jack is a three-year-old chimpanzee who has been the subject of a long-term experiment by Dr. Kendall, a researcher who been teaching Jack to communicate through sign language. Jack scrambles onto the ice in the midst of practice for Steven's junior league hockey team, and he and his teammates discover the monkey has a natural talent for the game.

Directed by Robert Vince

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Robert Vince
Writer
  • Anne Vince
  • Robert Vince
Producer
  • Ian Fodie

Reviews

r96sk
7/10

Low quality, but a harmlessly fine 90 minutes.

I found <em>'MVP: Most Valuable Primate'</em> to be perfectly passable. Sure it isn't a movie that requires any sort of thinking, it's very silly and would never top great film lists and/or win any major awards. However, not a single part of me disliked this as a movie. It's flimsy but watchable. The beginning also holds more depth than anticipated.

Kevin Zegers and Jamie Renée Smith are likeable leads, while those chimps are cute - and convincing 'actors', btw! Rick Ducommun is also involved, always remember that guy from 1994's <em>'Blank Check'</em>. Elsewhere, I proper thought Devin Ratray appears here as Larry, turns out he was played by Trevor Roberts - a bit of a doppelgänger!

Two more of these flicks left to watch. One of the best trilogies of all-time, I'm sure.

May 14, 2024

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Thematic Analysis

MVP: Most Valuable Primate represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Robert Vince brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2000, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of MVP: Most Valuable Primate took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 144 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2000, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While MVP: Most Valuable Primate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Bend It Like Beckham, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, MVP: Most Valuable Primate subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Annie Hall and The Longest Yard explore similar territory, MVP: Most Valuable Primate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 11, 2000
  • Runtime: 1h 33m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
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