“The Lobster,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a film that elicits strong reactions. Some viewers find it hilarious, a darkly comedic masterpiece, while others are left perplexed, disturbed, or simply not amused. The question of whether it’s a “funny” movie isn’t a simple yes or no. It demands a deeper understanding of its unique brand of humor: absurdism.
Understanding Absurdist Humor in “The Lobster”
Absurdism, as a philosophical and artistic movement, embraces the inherent meaninglessness of existence. It highlights the conflict between humanity’s innate desire for order and purpose and the cold, indifferent reality of the universe. Absurdist humor finds comedy in this very conflict, often through illogical situations, deadpan delivery, and a rejection of conventional narrative structures.
“The Lobster” embodies these elements perfectly. The premise itself is inherently absurd: single people are given 45 days in a hotel to find a partner, or they will be turned into an animal of their choosing. The rules of this society, the sterile environment of the hotel, and the characters’ often emotionless reactions to bizarre events all contribute to the film’s absurdist tone.
The Deadpan Delivery
A key element of the film’s humor is the actors’ performances. Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, and the entire cast deliver their lines with a remarkable lack of emotion, even when discussing the most outlandish topics. This deadpan delivery amplifies the absurdity of the situations, forcing the audience to confront the strangeness of the world Lanthimos has created.
For example, the hotel manager’s matter-of-fact explanation of the rules, or the characters’ robotic attempts at courtship, are funny precisely because they are so devoid of genuine feeling. The contrast between the characters’ detached demeanor and the bizarre events unfolding around them creates a sense of comic unease.
Unconventional Narrative Structures
“The Lobster” doesn’t follow a traditional narrative arc. The story meanders, exploring different aspects of the society and its inhabitants. There are shifts in tone and perspective, and the ending is deliberately ambiguous. This rejection of conventional storytelling adds to the film’s overall sense of absurdity.
The film disrupts our expectations of what a romantic comedy should be. Instead of a heartwarming tale of love and connection, we are presented with a dystopian vision of relationships driven by fear and conformity. This subversion of genre conventions is a source of much of the film’s humor.
The Violence and Dark Undertones
While “The Lobster” has its moments of levity, it’s also a deeply unsettling film. The violence, though often stylized and understated, is a constant presence. The characters’ desperation to find a partner, and the consequences of failing to do so, are treated with a disturbing lack of sentimentality.
This darkness is an integral part of the film’s comedic effect. The humor arises from the juxtaposition of the absurd situations and the underlying sense of dread. We laugh not because the events are inherently funny, but because they are so profoundly disturbing.
Different Perspectives on the Film’s Humor
Whether “The Lobster” is funny is ultimately a subjective question. Different viewers will respond to the film’s absurdist humor in different ways. Some may find it insightful and thought-provoking, while others may find it alienating and off-putting.
Appreciating the Subtlety
The humor in “The Lobster” is often subtle and understated. It’s not a film filled with slapstick or one-liners. Instead, the comedy arises from the cumulative effect of the film’s bizarre situations, deadpan performances, and unconventional narrative.
To appreciate the film’s humor, viewers need to be attuned to its unique sensibility. They need to be willing to embrace the absurd and to find humor in the unexpected.
Finding Humor in Discomfort
“The Lobster” is a film that deliberately makes its audience uncomfortable. It challenges our assumptions about relationships, society, and human nature. The humor often stems from this discomfort.
We laugh because the film exposes the absurdity of our own social conventions and the often-irrational ways we pursue love and belonging. It’s a humor that is both unsettling and strangely liberating.
A Matter of Taste
Ultimately, whether or not you find “The Lobster” funny is a matter of personal taste. Some viewers are naturally drawn to absurdist humor, while others prefer more traditional forms of comedy. There is no right or wrong answer.
If you are open to unconventional storytelling, appreciate deadpan performances, and enjoy films that challenge your expectations, you may find “The Lobster” to be a surprisingly funny movie. However, if you prefer straightforward narratives and conventional humor, you may find it perplexing or even off-putting.
Analyzing Specific Scenes for Humor
To further illustrate the film’s comedic style, let’s examine some specific scenes that are often cited as examples of its humor.
The Hunting Scenes
The scenes in which the “loners” hunt for single people in the woods are both disturbing and darkly funny. The hunters use tranquilizer guns to incapacitate their prey, and the entire process is depicted with a chilling lack of emotion.
The humor arises from the absurdity of the situation. The idea of people being hunted like animals for their relationship status is both horrifying and strangely comical.
The Breakfast Ritual
The daily breakfast ritual in the hotel is another example of the film’s absurdist humor. The guests are forced to perform bizarre exercises and participate in awkward social interactions.
The humor comes from the characters’ robotic obedience to these absurd rules. They seem to have completely internalized the logic of the hotel, even though it makes no sense.
The Blind Woman’s Revelation
The scene where David (Colin Farrell) reveals his plan to feign blindness to be with the blind woman (Rachel Weisz) is a perfect example of the film’s dark humor. His clumsy attempts to imitate blindness and her reaction to his revelation are both awkward and darkly funny.
The humor stems from the desperation of the characters and the lengths they are willing to go to in order to find a partner. It’s a commentary on the pressure to conform and the absurdity of societal expectations.
The Lobster’s Lasting Impact
“The Lobster” has had a significant impact on contemporary cinema. It has influenced a new generation of filmmakers who are exploring absurdist humor and unconventional storytelling.
Inspiring Other Absurdist Films
The film’s success has paved the way for other films that embrace absurdist humor and challenge conventional narrative structures. It has demonstrated that there is an audience for films that are both thought-provoking and darkly funny.
Challenging Romantic Comedy Conventions
“The Lobster” has also challenged the conventions of the romantic comedy genre. It has shown that romantic comedies can be more than just predictable stories about finding love. They can be used to explore deeper themes about society, relationships, and human nature.
Sparking Debate and Discussion
“The Lobster” is a film that sparks debate and discussion. Its ambiguous ending and unconventional themes leave viewers pondering its meaning long after they have left the theater. This is a testament to the film’s power and its ability to provoke thought and emotion.
Conclusion: Funny, but Not in a Conventional Way
So, is “The Lobster” a funny movie? The answer is a resounding, if qualified, yes. It’s funny in a way that subverts expectations, challenges norms, and embraces the absurdity of human existence. It’s a film that uses humor as a tool to explore deeper, often uncomfortable, truths about ourselves and the world we live in.
It’s not a laugh-out-loud comedy in the traditional sense. Instead, it offers a more subtle, nuanced, and often unsettling form of humor that rewards those who are willing to embrace its unique sensibility. If you are looking for a film that is both funny and thought-provoking, “The Lobster” is definitely worth a watch. Just be prepared to be challenged, disturbed, and perhaps even a little bit amused by its darkly comedic vision of the future of relationships.
FAQ 1: What is “The Lobster” about and why is it considered absurdist?
“The Lobster” presents a dystopian near-future where single people are given 45 days to find a romantic partner or be transformed into an animal of their choosing. The film follows David, a recently divorced man, as he navigates this bizarre system, first attempting to find a partner at a hotel designed for pairing up, and later joining a group of loners who forbid romantic relationships.
The film’s absurdist nature stems from its exaggerated and illogical premise, its deadpan delivery, and its exploration of the societal pressures surrounding relationships. The characters’ extreme behaviors, the nonsensical rules, and the generally bleak outlook on human connection create a darkly comedic and thought-provoking experience that challenges conventional notions of love and partnership.
FAQ 2: What makes the humor in “The Lobster” different from typical comedies?
The humor in “The Lobster” is far removed from traditional slapstick or witty banter. It relies heavily on awkward situations, understated dialogue, and the inherent irony of its premise. The characters often behave in ways that are simultaneously unsettling and hilarious, creating a sense of unease that underlies the comedy. The film also uses physical comedy sparingly but effectively, often amplifying the absurdity of the situations.
Instead of seeking easy laughs, “The Lobster” aims to provoke a more cerebral and nuanced reaction. The humor derives from the audience recognizing the inherent ridiculousness of the world presented and how it reflects aspects of our own society. The film doesn’t provide easy answers or comforting resolutions, leaving viewers to contemplate the absurdity of modern relationships and the lengths people go to in search of connection.
FAQ 3: Is “The Lobster” intended to be laugh-out-loud funny, or is it more subtle?
“The Lobster” is not a laugh-out-loud comedy in the traditional sense. It does not rely on punchlines or broad comedic set pieces. Instead, it employs a more subtle and unsettling form of humor that stems from the absurdity of its premise and the deadpan delivery of its actors. The humor often creeps up on the viewer, making it a rewarding experience for those who appreciate dry wit and dark comedy.
The film’s humor is more akin to a slow burn, where the audience gradually realizes the extent of the characters’ ridiculous situations and the inherent satire of the societal commentary. Some scenes might elicit a chuckle, while others provoke a more uncomfortable smile, but the overall effect is one of profound and unsettling humor. It’s a film that rewards multiple viewings, as nuances and subtle jokes become more apparent with each watch.
FAQ 4: How does the film’s tone contribute to its comedic effect?
The film’s deliberately detached and emotionless tone is crucial to its comedic effect. The actors deliver their lines with a flat affect, even in the midst of outrageous situations. This creates a sense of disconnect that amplifies the absurdity of the events unfolding on screen. The deadpan performances contribute to the film’s overall feeling of unease, which paradoxically adds to its humor.
The lack of sentimentality and the absence of any clear moral compass allow the audience to observe the characters’ actions without judgment, enabling them to find humor in their desperate attempts to find love and connection. The consistent tone reinforces the idea that the world of “The Lobster” is not governed by logic or reason, making the characters’ struggles all the more comically tragic.
FAQ 5: What are some examples of specific scenes or moments that showcase the film’s humor?
One particularly memorable scene involves David repeatedly and unsuccessfully attempting to feign empathy for a woman who suffers nosebleeds to form a romantic connection. The awkwardness of his attempts and the woman’s unwavering seriousness create a darkly comedic moment that highlights the film’s exploration of forced relationships. Another example is the “heartless woman” character, who has a penchant for shooting animals. The banality with which she describes her actions and the overall violence involved is simultaneously shocking and absurdly funny.
The scenes within the hotel are also filled with subtle humor, such as the mandatory dance routines and the awkward dating workshops. These situations highlight the artificiality of the dating process and the lengths to which people will go to conform to societal expectations. The scenes with the loners are also inherently comedic, showcasing a different kind of absurd relationship dynamic characterized by their rigid anti-relationship rules.
FAQ 6: Is “The Lobster” a comedy for everyone, or does it have a specific target audience?
“The Lobster” is definitely not a comedy for everyone. Its absurdist humor, slow pace, and dark themes may not appeal to those who prefer more conventional comedies with clear jokes and happy endings. The film’s unconventional storytelling and its lack of readily identifiable protagonists also might make it difficult for some viewers to connect with the characters.
The film is best suited for audiences who appreciate independent cinema, dark humor, and films that challenge conventional narratives. Viewers who enjoy the works of directors like Charlie Kaufman or Yorgos Lanthimos will likely find “The Lobster” to be a rewarding and thought-provoking experience. The movie resonates most with those who appreciate satire and films that explore complex themes with a sense of irony and detachment.
FAQ 7: How does “The Lobster” satirize societal expectations about relationships?
“The Lobster” relentlessly satirizes societal pressures surrounding romantic relationships and the perceived necessity of finding a partner. The film exaggerates these pressures to an extreme degree, creating a world where being single is not only frowned upon but actively punished. The hotel, designed for pairing up singles, embodies the superficiality of modern dating, where individuals are forced to highlight their shared traits and conform to predetermined roles.
The film also critiques the opposite extreme, represented by the loners, who advocate for the complete rejection of romantic relationships. Their rigid rules and violent enforcement of celibacy highlight the absurdity of dogmatic ideologies. By showcasing both extremes, “The Lobster” encourages viewers to question the societal narratives that dictate our expectations of love and partnership, ultimately suggesting that true connection should not be forced or dictated by external pressures.