Cast
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Jim Carrey
as Lloyd Christmas
Jeff Daniels
as Harry Dunne
Lauren Holly
as Mary Swanson
Teri Garr
as Helen Swanson
Charles Rocket
as Nicholas Andre
Karen Duffy
as J.P. Shay
Mike Starr
as Joe Mentaliano
Felton Perry
as Detective Dale
Hank Brandt
as Karl Swanson
Brad Lockerman
as Bobby
Victoria Rowell
as Athletic Beauty
Brady Bluhm
as Billy
Cam Neely
as Sea Bass
Rob Moran
as Bartender
Joe Baker
as Barnard
Crew
Director
- Peter Farrelly
Writer
- Bobby Farrelly
- Bennett Yellin
- Peter Farrelly
Producer
- Steven Stabler
- Charles B. Wessler
- Brad Krevoy
Reviews
Crazypiglady
Very funny. Not just silly. I often cite this film as my favourite all time film. It took me time to watch it for the first time as it looked like a number of other films which are silly and claim to be hilarious but usually miss the point. This film nails it. The comedy is constant and is cleverly done with situations fitting nicely into the storyline which acts as the perfect vehicle for the perfect delivery of an amazing script. The Carrelly brothers other films are good too but usually have something uncomfortable in. Dumb and Dumber is their masterpiece. I can imagine them finishing it, then going over the script asking, "what else can we add to this joke to make it funnier?" A very difficult film to beat in comedy. I'm going to watch it again now.
Jan 1, 2023
Andre Gonzales
These guys are the very meaning of dumb. They don't get any dumber then this. Even though there pretty dumb they still were smarter then the bad guys, just because their dumb!
May 14, 2023
James
This is so bad despite it being really good yet I still think it’s good despite me thinking it’s really bad.
Oct 14, 2023
James
They outdumb every goddamn person in any goddamn film ever - except maybe horror films.
Oct 14, 2023
James
Poetic cinema.
Oct 20, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Dumb and Dumber represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Peter Farrelly 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 1994, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dumb and Dumber took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $16.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 453 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1994, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dumb and Dumber shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Transamerica, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dumb and Dumber subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Life of Brian and Moonstruck explore similar territory, Dumb and Dumber 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: December 16, 1994
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Budget: $16,000,000
- Revenue: $247,275,374
