Da Ali G Show

Da Ali G show is a television show that has both US and UK versions that stars Sacha Baron Cohen and his alter-egos: Kazakstani Borat Sagdiyev, gay Austrian Bruno, and British Urban journalist Ali G. All of his characters operate in extremes, and they all interview guests, sometimes notable people in politics and often ordinary citizens, both in the US and the UK. Ali G speaks African American Vernacular English in a British and Caribbean accent, and often behaves in a stereotypical manner of British African-Caribbean culture, hip hop, and American urban culture. He asks questions about the media and politics and relates his own “experiences” with his gangster friends. Borat is presented as a traveler who wants to learn more about cultures other than his own, often latching on to negative concepts that he picks up from others as a commentary on how people can spread closed-minded opinions. He also makes misogynistic or anti-Semitic comments, implying those are part of the culture he comes from and using it to either make people uncomfortable or point out to a viewer how comfortable some people are with it. Bruno flaunts his homosexuality, often making people uncomfortable, but interviews guests about fashion and partying, and demonstrates the superficiality and hypocrisy of the fashion industry. Films were made based on each character and released to much controversy, as many people who were “tricked” into revealing ignorant or bigoted ideals were outraged, and some viewers missed the point of the satire completely. Baron Cohen has discussed in his real life how he uses the characters as a catalyst to help people understand how conformity encourages racism, sexism, and prejudiced viewpoints. Celebrities that have been a part of Ali G’s spoofs include David Beckham and actress Rhona Mitra. MORE