THE DICTATOR (2012)

Director: Larry Charles
Rating: 15
Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen, Anna Faris and Ben Kingsley

Sacha Baron Cohen is known for making hilariously offensive movies, but since Borat I’ve never been sure if he could raise the bar, and I’m not sure he managed to pull it out the bag with this one.

Admiral General Aladeen (Sacha Baron Cohen) is the ruler of Wadiya much to the disappointment of the citizens and also many other countries. Aladeen goes to the USA to talk to the council after they discover he is building nuclear weapons. His plotting Uncle Tamir (Ben Kingsley) then has him kidnapped and replaced by a doppelganger. Alone with nothing, he meets Zoey (Anna Faris) who works at an alternative co-op where she tries to change Aladeen and his racist/sexist/fascist ways.

I think most people can guess where the storyline will add up, as with most films like this, they have an easy to read plot. There are some outrageously funny scenes, but they weren’t consistent enough to make the film his best so far. I have to admit though that he does step close to the edge of controversy with the fascist and sexist jokes used, but it’s still laughable.

All in all, I would say it has some extremely funny moments, but not enough to be anywhere as good as Borat. I think Mr. Cohen has quite a way to go before he creates another film as good as Borat. But if you like cringe worthy humour and aren’t easily offended, then you’ll definitely enjoy this film.

Verdict: 3/5