Free Enterprise

Free Enterprise is an ingenious and quirky blend of comedy, drama, and romance, served with a generous helping of pop culture homage. Released in 1998 and directed by Robert Meyer Burnett, this film stars Rafer Weigel, Eric McCormack, and features a unique and memorable performance by William Shatner playing an exaggerated version of himself. The story offers a humorous and indulgent treat for sci-fi fans, particularly those with an affinity for Star Trek.

It follows the exploits of stunted thirty-something Hollywood inhabitants, Robert (Rafer Weigel) and Mark (Eric McCormack), struggling to balance their respective love lives with their career aspirations, all while trying to maintain their treasured fandom. These lifelong friends share an undying love for Star Trek: The Original Series, as they were shaped by its values, principles, and the iconic character, Captain James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner. It's this worship of Shatner that catapults the narrative into motion.

In a noteworthy sequence, Robert and Mark, find their childhood idol, William Shatner, in a bookstore, but much to their surprise, Shatner isn't what they expect him to be. Instead of the commanding presence they remember from Star Trek, they find a quirky, thought-provoking figure who dreams of staging a rap version of Julius Caesar. What follows this meeting is a series of bizarre and funny moments as Shatner inserts himself into their lives, creating a space for their dreams and reality to collide.

As the narrative unfolds, the film explores the dual storyline of our protagonist's romantic lives and their friendship with Shatner. Robert, an editor trying to make it as a filmmaker, embarks on a romantic journey with a woman named Claire (Audie England), who shares his affinity for all things nerdy. Eric McCormack plays Mark, a geek-style Don Juan and Robert's best friend, who's finding it difficult to maintain a steady relationship due to his non-stop movie, music, and TV show references that baffle most women. While love is in the air for Robert, Mark's inability to speak without referencing pop culture puts his budding relationship in jeopardy.

Simultaneously, the friendship with Shatner further complicates their lives. Instead of simply worshipping him from afar, they become involved in his eccentric pursuits and find themselves in bitingly humorous situations. The onscreen character played by Shatner brilliantly satirises his real-life persona and pokes fun at his image, couched in a nod to his Star Trek fame. This performance takes the film's humor, wit, and charm to another level, making it a delight for fans and casual viewers alike.

Free Enterprise exudes a vibrant charm that manages to turn eccentricity and geekiness into cool. It's laced with multiple Star Trek references and geek culture commentary, never failing to offer pointed and complex representations of fandom. Importantly, the film never feels suffocating, even for those unfamiliar with Star Trek or the nuances of intense fandom. It's funny and engaging, with sharp, pop-culture-driven dialogue and an affectionate understanding of its characters and the world they inhabit.

The unique approach to storytelling further enriches the movie. The sequences are cleverly edited, peppered with familiar visual effects and snippets to reward Star Trek and sci-fi enthusiasts, although these inclusions do not alienate those unfamiliar with the references. The film’s soundtrack is also worth noting. It features a delightful blend of classics from the 70s and 80s, cueing key moments and amplifying the story’s emotional pull.

The performances by Weigel, McCormack, and England are praiseworthy, neatly balancing comedy and drama. However, it's Shatner's self-deprecating performance that elevates the movie, making it one of the most memorable components.

In essence, Free Enterprise is an unexpectedly insightful look into the universe of fandom, the struggles of adulthood, and of course, an exploration of an exaggerated version of the charismatic Shatner. Whether you're a lifelong 'Trekkie' or just looking for a funny and intelligent comedy, Free Enterprise is a remarkable, must-see movie.