Released in 1979, I think that it is more than fair to say that without The Jerk, we may not have had the awesome comedies of the 80s and 90s. This paved the way for a genre of “stupid comedies” that are just so over the top and crazy with characters that are just so dumb, but they make you laugh due to the insane situations they keep finding themselves in!
How to Download The Jerk
The Jerk was released on December 14, 1979. You can download or stream the film from a digital platform. Click on the Download button at the end of this review and make your choice. If you like older comedy movies, check out our reviews of Meatballs and Heaven Can Wait.
The Movie Review
While something like that was very common in the 80s, 90s, and to a degree, even today. It was Steve Martin and The Jerk that really showed a comedy like this could be both a commercial and critical success. I watched this again recently and still had a lot of fun. Granted some of the humor may not have aged super well given how these are these days, but I still laughed all the way through the movie.
A Fresh Take on Dumb Humor: The Jerk Movie Review
The thing with The Jerk is if you watch the first ten minutes, think it is dumb, and do not laugh, you may as well turn it off. This is a movie that starts as it means to go on and it just gets more ridiculous as it progresses. This kind of dumb and over the top comedy is certainly an acquired taste and I would not disagree with someone who said that it was not for them.
The Plot of The Jerk: Navin’s Misguided Quest for Success
The Jerk is the story of a man called, Navin. Navin is white, but he was adopted by a black family. While his family situation is very loving, Navin wants more from life and heads out to start a life of his own in St. Louis. Along the way he adopts a dog that he calls “Shithead” what is funny about this is that some versions of the movie have edited the name of the dog to “Stupid” instead.
Navin’s Wild Journey: Love, Fame, and Everything in Between
Navin has one heck of a crazy time as he tries to make it on his own. He starts out working in a gas station, but he ends up working at a freak show where a tough stunt rider takes a liking to him, a killer randomly decides that he is his target and he ends up striking it rich! Oh, he also meets a woman called Marie whom he falls in love with. His story takes him all over the place, ending up in LA where he loses everything and then gets it all back again.
Now, the way I have written this may not sound all that great. However, trust me when I tell you that this is just some of the dumbest and craziest stuff you have seen. The Jerk is the kind of movie that just flows from one over the top situation to the next and it drags you along laughing all the way.
Steve Martin’s Iconic Performance as Navin in The Jerk
What ties it all together is Steve Martin. The Jerk was actually the first solo starring role for Steve Martin who by this point had really started to become a household name. Even today in Only Murders in the Building, Steve Martin has this quality about him that is nearly impossible to put into words. There is just something so captivating, funny, and likable about him.
Final Thoughts on The Jerk’s Lasting Impact
I saw The Jerk as a kid and thought that it was hilarious and it still makes me laugh to this day. I got my wife to watch it, who had never seen it growing up and she liked it too. There is just something about Steve Martin that is likable, even when he is playing a character like this. If you are in the mood for a classic comedy, give this one a shot.
