Something, Something, Something, Dark Side
Parody done correctly can be an uplifting and artistic view of something that reminds us how great it was. Parody done wrong, well I can’t think of anything more awful. Luckily for us, Seth McFarlane not only knows how to do parody correctly, but he’s a huge Star Wars Fan. And his latest DVD release Something, Something, Something, Dark Side, is a loving and hilarious tribute to arguably the best Star Wars film in the series, The Empire Strikes Back. All the Family Guy characters reprise their roles from the Blue Harvest parody from a few years ago: Peter as Han Solo, Lois as Princess Leia, Chris as Luke Skywalker, and Stewie as Darth Vader. All play the role to a tee adding their own Family Guy twist to them. And lucky for us, there are a few more surprises waiting inside the DVD.
As you may have deduced, this film was and is two Family Guy episodes stitched together. Originally these episodes were supposed to air as a finale to season 7, but got pushed back to season 8. My guess is the folks at Fox wanted to make a few bucks before the Holidays and released a DVD version before airing it for the masses. Knowing that you’ll eventually be able to watch this on TV, why would you want to spend $15 on a DVD? Well there are a few reasons, actually.
First, the DVD is uncut, and if you haven’t watched Family Guy in its uncensored form, you are missing out. Listening to Stewie (as Darth Vader) drop the F bomb a few times or hearing Chris (as Luke Skywalker) yell, “Shit!” before he crashes his X-Wing is priceless. That and there are more than a few jokes and social references that I am sure will be edited out for TV.
Second, this movie is funny as shit and perfect for getting together with your buds and laughing your ass off before the rest of the plebes get to. Imagine you and your buds are over playing New Super Mario Brothers Wii and after an hour of those shenanigans, someone suggests watching a movie. You could be the hero and watch this film, only take up an hour and be right back gaming. It’s sweet!
Finally, Seth McFarlane wonderfully recreates the greatness that is Empire Strikes Back. Each background scene is almost a shot for shot copy of the original work. There are even cut scenes that are so true to the original that you forget that you are watching Family Guy. Watching this film makes you want to go back to your collection and drag out Empire Strikes Back. It’s a double whammy of awesomeness!
So if you are looking for gift ideas for the nerd in your family, or you are a Star Wars or Family Guy fan yourself, go out and grab this fine DVD. And may the force be with you!
