Stranger Things – Season 1, Episode 4

Best in Show (2000) – The Dog Show as a Human Comedy

Release Date: September 29, 2000 (USA)
Genre: Mockumentary, Comedy
Directed by: Christopher Guest

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Introduction

From the comedic genius of Christopher Guest comes the hysterically funny and brilliantly improvised mockumentary, Best in Show (2000). The film follows five eccentric and passionate dog owners and their beloved canines as they prepare for and compete in the prestigious Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show. With a cast of improv veterans, including Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, and Parker Posey, the film is a masterclass in deadpan humor and character-driven comedy. Best in Show is a biting and hilarious satire of the dog show world and the strange obsessions of the people who inhabit it, all while being a warm and surprisingly heartfelt look at the bond between people and their pets.

Plot Overview

The film is presented in a documentary style and introduces five distinct pairs of owners and their dogs, all vying for the coveted "Best in Show" title at the annual Mayflower Dog Show. We meet Gerry and Cookie Fleck (Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara), a couple with a small Norwich Terrier, who are constantly bickering over their past and their present. There's the high-strung, yuppie couple Meg and Hamilton Swan (Parker Posey and Michael Hitchcock), who are a walking bundle of neuroses, along with their Weimaraner. We also meet the effervescent trophy wife Sherri Ann Cabot (Jennifer Coolidge) and her much older husband, as well as her handler, Christy Cummings (Jane Lynch), who are competing with their poodle. The cast is rounded out by the kind but oblivious lawyer Harlan Pepper (Christopher Guest) and his Bloodhound, and the flamboyant duo of Scott Donlan and Stefan Vanderhoof (John Michael Higgins and Michael McKean) and their Shih Tzu.

The film follows their preparations, their travel to the show, and their interactions with each other as they compete for the prize. The plot, while loose, is a series of hilarious and cringe-worthy moments, as the characters' insecurities, quirks, and strange relationships are revealed. The film culminates in the dog show itself, where the tension and comedy reach a fever pitch, leading to a surprisingly sweet and satisfying conclusion that reminds us that, in the end, it's not about the prize, but about the love of a good dog.

Meet the Cast

The film features an iconic cast of improv actors:

• Christopher Guest as Harlan Pepper
• Eugene Levy as Gerry Fleck
• Catherine O'Hara as Cookie Fleck
• Parker Posey as Meg Swan
• Michael Hitchcock as Hamilton Swan
• Jennifer Coolidge as Sherri Ann Cabot
• Jane Lynch as Christy Cummings
• John Michael Higgins as Scott Donlan
• Michael McKean as Stefan Vanderhoof

Behind the Scenes

The film was directed by Christopher Guest, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Eugene Levy. The film is famous for its almost entirely improvised dialogue, with the cast being given only a detailed outline of the story and a character biography. This unique method of filmmaking allows for incredibly natural and organic comedic performances. The film was shot in Vancouver and Los Angeles and used real dog shows as a backdrop to create its authentic feel. The film's critical and commercial success further cemented Guest's reputation as a master of the mockumentary format.

What to Expect

• Classic Christopher Guest-style mockumentary humor.
• Brilliantly improvised and hilarious performances.
• A great blend of satire and heartfelt moments.
• A funny and affectionate look at the world of dog shows.

If you're a fan of films like This Is Spinal Tap and Waiting for Guffman, you'll find Best in Show to be a perfect and endlessly re-watchable comedy.

Why It's a Notable Film

Best in Show was a major critical and commercial success, grossing over $20 million on a modest budget. The film was nominated for and won numerous awards, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Its lasting legacy is its place as one of the finest examples of the mockumentary genre and a cult classic that is loved by both comedy fans and dog lovers alike. The film's iconic characters and endlessly quotable dialogue have made it a pop culture staple.

Ratings & Critical Reception

Best in Show received "Generally Favorable" reviews from critics:

IMDb: ⭐ 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 🍅 93% (based on 124 critic reviews)
Metascore: 🟢 78/100 (Generally Favorable, based on 33 critic reviews)

Critics were almost universally positive, praising the film for its "razor-sharp wit," "perfectly timed humor," and the "brilliant improvisational skills of its cast". The film's ability to be both a hilarious satire and a genuinely warm and affectionate film was often highlighted as its greatest strength.

Conclusion

Best in Show (2000) is a comedic masterpiece that showcases the genius of Christopher Guest and his ensemble cast. With its hilarious characters and a story that is as funny as it is heartfelt, the film is a testament to the power of improvisation and a truly unique style of comedy. It's a film that will have you laughing from start to finish, all while celebrating the quirky and lovable world of dog owners and their best friends.

What is your favorite comedy film of all time? Share your thoughts below!

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Sources:

• [1] Best in Show (film) - Wikipedia