Many films are escapists, providing light entertainment. Feature films are also able to offer valuable insights into human nature, and the society in which we live. One film that is not only entertaining, but also offers meaningful comment, is The Full Monty, by Peter Cattaneo. The English film is exceptionally amusing, and yet the audience can take away with them an enhanced understanding of the world around them. The filmmakers communicate their attitudes through the plotline, significant scenes, and the often humorous dialogue of the characters.
Set in 1997, The Full Monty tells of a group of five men each of which are dealing with various domestic and personal issues. Central to their problems is unemployment. All of the men were employed in the steel industry, which was closed down by the conservative British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the 1980's. Although a sensible move in the long term, it left many middle-aged men out of work, and without much hope of finding another full time job. Without a job these men felt useless and even depressed, leading to other problems. Although the film is centred on these distressed characters, it manages to entertain its audience very well.
Indeed, The Full Monty is very entertaining. Even though the characters are often miserable, they are very likeable, and their misfortunes encourage the viewer to sympathize with them. Gaz, the central character, is sarcastic and obnoxious in part, but he is also a loving father. When he refused the right to see his son, he feels desperately lonely. The audience will feel for Gaz, and hope he can re-establish communications with Nathan. Furthermore, the characters are all from different walks of life. The group of men comprises of black, overweight, gay, and criminal men. This allows a wider audience to empathize with the characters, and also shows that anybody can be successful. The Full Monty employs irony to create humorous situations.
