MOVIE REVIEW: Your Highness (2011)

If any of you thought the conventions of the fantasy genre were dead and outdone, Your Highness brings them back in a rip-roaring, raunchy romp (woah, alliteration...). Overly advertised as the next offering from the director of Pineapple Express, anyone whose seen it will expect an equally comparable spate of weed, dick, and fart jokes. However, in the trappings of a fantasy film, the odd juxtaposition is just a hilarious concept unto itself. On top of that, Natalie Portman makes an appearance as a sharp-tongued amazon; a role against type that she does beautifully. With enough action, gags, and swashbuckling to go around, this is a pretty good way to spend a night at the movies.

In the Middle Ages, Prince Thadeous lives in the shadow of his older, and more physically appealing brother Fabious, who is heir apparent to their father's throne. Upon returning from his latest quest, Fabious presents the young, virginal Belladonna to the court as his new consort. On their wedding day, Belladonna is snatched up by the evil wizard Leezar; who plans to produce a devastating dragon via a forced sexual ritual, known as: "The F*ckening". The two princes and their meek assistant Courtney set out into the wilderness to rescue Belladonna, encountering a feisty warrior named Isabella, who also has plans for taking out Leezar.

I haven't seen many comedies this year yet, but I will say, I already like what I'm seeing so far (and I should, with how ridiculous the price of movie tickets is, these days). Even so, this is a comedy that also displays some excellent creativity in it's visuals and story. What I find brilliant about the blatantly trashy writing is that the dialogue is completely accented and reflective of fantasy cliche's, yet, it is so effortlessly punctuated with vulgarity. The neologisms and profanities that didn't exist back then resurface in a hilarious way. Apparently, most of the dialogue was improvised, too. The script only consisted of a basic outline. The cliches of the fantasy genre are present, throughout, but they're done well, and creatively combined with the fresh humor. Fans of the fantasy genre, along with those who enjoy humor of this kind should find Your Highness to be an enjoyable ride.

8/10

Peace,
- Jon