Ben Stiller Doubts Tropic Thunder Could Be Made Today: The Shift in Comedy Preferences
Ben Stiller recently discussed the possibility of his 2008 film Tropic Thunder, starring Robert Downey Jr., being made in today’s entertainment landscape. The movie, which Stiller wrote, acted in, and directed, is a satirical action comedy following a group of actors filming a Vietnam war movie who find themselves in real danger.
Featuring a star-studded cast including Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Tom Cruise, and others, Tropic Thunder poked fun at war films and method acting. Stiller expressed uncertainty about whether edgier comedy like Tropic Thunder could be produced today due to the changing environment. He credited Steven Spielberg for supporting the film’s production back then.
In the film, Downey Jr.’s character undergoes a controversial “pigmentation alteration” surgery to portray a black soldier, a move that has attracted criticism over the years. Despite this, Downey Jr. has defended the film, citing its intention to challenge problematic tropes in the industry.
Stiller also shared updates on the second season of Apple TV’s Severance, a show exploring a unique work-life balance experiment involving memory manipulation. He highlighted the expansion of the show’s world and the exploration of relationships in the upcoming season.
While Tropic Thunder’s edgy comedy may face challenges in today’s climate, Stiller remains proud of the film’s impact. Downey Jr.’s performance, though controversial, aimed to address longstanding issues in the entertainment industry. As the entertainment landscape evolves, films like Tropic Thunder continue to spark conversations about representation and comedy.
