Dick: The Devil Dared Me To

Dick: The Devil Dared Me To is a hilarious 2007 New Zealand made action-comedy film. The movie revolves around the thrills and spills of the world of stunt driving. Directed by Chris Stapp, and starring Stapp himself, Matt Heath, and Bonnie Soper, this film is a comedic take on the lives and challenges of stunt performers.

The movie centers around the daredevil protagonist, Richard Randolf "Dick" Johansonson (played brilliantly by Chris Stapp). Dick represents the bravest and most fearless stuntman in all of New Zealand who aspires to live up to his father's legacy as a legendary stuntman. The story follows Dick’s journey from his early childhood through his attempts to become the world’s greatest stuntman, while also indulging in plentiful slapstick humor and outrageous comedy moments.

The opening scenes provide an insight into Dick's desire to follow in his father's footsteps - a journey filled with over-the-top, daredevil stunts and aspiring heights. Dick's mission intensifies when he decides to prove his mettle by attempting a stunt that even his father could not complete. Enter Randy Cambell (played by Matt Heath), an aging washed-up stuntman from the 80s, who becomes Dick’s mentor and guide through this dangerous world. The scenes shared by Stapp and Heath are filled with sadistic humor, displaying their fantastic on-screen chemistry.

However, Dick's journey is filled with numerous hurdles. Besides the death-defying, perilous stunts, there's a deadly rivalry brewing between Dick and his arch-nemesis, millionaire stuntman investor Troy (Andrew Beattie). Adding to the complexity of this daring rivalry is the character Jodie (Bonnie Soper), Troy’s beautiful assistant, who becomes the object of Dick’s affections.

Further, the film does not shy away from examining the societal pressures that stuntmen face. While Dick's reckless nature leads him to take on bigger challenges, his relationship with his family, especially his mother (Philippa Johnson), sheds light on the issues that relate to his career choice. It gives audiences a glimpse beyond the bravado, into the raw, human side of these daredevils. Alongside, it maintains a comedic touch, using clever satire to exaggerate both the ridiculous aspects of manic ambition and the absurd bravura linked with stunt performers.

"Dick: The Devil Dared Me To" also majorly benefits from an excellent cast. As the lead role, Stapp delivers a character both memorable and laugh-out-loud funny, consistently delivering his signature humor. Matt Heath’s performance, reminiscent of aging, yesteryear heroes locked in memories of their glorious past, significantly contributes to the film’s overall fun vibe. Meanwhile, Bonnie Soper provides the perfect foil to the film's predominantly male cast with her portrayal of Jodie, who represents the emotional anchor in this overwhelmingly macho world.

The soundtrack provides a fun throwback to the 80s, featuring adrenaline-pumping tracks that perfectly match the on-screen energy. The cinematography is crisp, capturing the breathtaking New Zealand landscape creating a visually stunning backdrop for thrilling stunt scenes.

In essence, “Dick: The Devil Dared Me To” is a humorous and entertaining twist on the world of stunt driving and the individuals who risk it all for adrenaline and glory. It presents a mix of memorable characters portraying the dangers of ambition and ego, and the unshakable desire to be the best. With a combination of skillful direction, a talented main cast, and a healthy spread of action and humor, “Dick: The Devil Dared Me To” succeeds in being an enjoyable film. This comedy flick is a real treat for fans of slapstick humor, parodies, and daredevil stunts.