Join me as I dive into Ace Ventura, Pet Detective. While hailed as the comedy classic that skyrocketed Jim Carrey's career, the movie features a controversial third-act plot twist that has ignited discussions about its portrayal of transgender people. In this episode, I takes listeners on a journey back to the early 90s to uncover how this film came to be, exploring its impact on Jim Carrey's career and the comedic landscape of the time. I also explore how awfully the third act plot twist has aged with time. Tune in for a thoughtful analysis of the film's legacy, both its comedic brilliance and its problematic elements, and discover what makes Ace Ventura a film that was almost timeless.

In this episode of "Explaining the Joke," I take a critical look at the 1999 romantic comedy, "Never Been Kissed." While nostalgic for some, the film reveals underlying themes that haven't aged well over the years. From questionable romantic dynamics to concerns over character representation to the ickiest teacher in movie history, this episode unpacks why this beloved Drew Barrymore movie stirs such polarizing views today. Dive into the background of its creation, explore how it fits into the broader spectrum of rom-coms, and wonder as to why this movie is available to watch on Disney+. 

Join me as I delve into the comedic world of Zoolander, Ben Stiller's iconic film about male models. In this episode of "Explaining the Joke," I explores the film's journey from a modest box office success to a cult classic beloved for its absurdity and memorable quotes. With a critical lens, the episode examines the controversies surrounding the film, including its ban in Malaysia and the sensitive timing of its release. I also reflect on the film's surprising depth, highlighting its portrayal of masculinity and emotional intelligence, while acknowledging aspects that haven't aged well over the years. Discover why Zoolander still holds a special place in the comedy genre, and join I for a thoughtful discussion on whether the film's humor stands the test of time. Tune in for a nostalgic journey and a fresh perspective on this early 2000s classic.

In this episode of "Explaining the Joke," I dive into the 1984 college comedy classic, "Revenge of the Nerds." Known for its underdog story and raunchy humor, the film has long been celebrated as a staple of its genre. However, when viewed through a modern lens, the movie reveals a series of problematic themes that spark serious ethical questions. I explore the film's history, its impact on popular culture, and the controversial scenes that have not aged well over the decades. From the nerds' questionable methods of revenge to the depiction of serious crimes as comedic gags, this episode critically examines the movie's legacy. Join me as I navigate through the complexities of nostalgia and modern sensibilities, asking whether the humor of "Revenge of the Nerds" can still be justified today.

In this episode of "Explaining the Joke," I dive into the comedy classic Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. I explore how Mike Myers' brainchild, inspired by 60s nostalgia and his father's influence, became a defining spoof of the late 90s. The discussion delves into the film's dual nature as both a tribute and parody of the James Bond era, questioning whether its humor has stood the test of time. While acknowledging elements that may not have aged well, I also highlight how Austin Powers offers more charm and moral decency than people believe. Join me as I revisit the iconic moments and cultural impact of this beloved comedy. Tune in for a serious discussion on the funny business of Austin Powers and its groovy legacy.

Is this movie as funny as we remember? Hi, I am Parker Miller. A long time comedy fan who wants to dive deeper into some of these classics. Every week, we will be looking back at specific comedy films and seeing if they age well. We will analyze the history and background of the film and see how certain plot points and jokes hold up. In other words, we are “Explaining the Joke.” Subscribe to my podcast for a better understanding of funny business.