Steve Martin Mocks Mel's Passion

(snip)

In Martin's column, "Stan", a fictitious studio boss, sends Mr Gibson "studio script notes" on The Passion, effusing excitedly at the commercial and dramatic prospects for the script he has just been sent but suggesting some changes to widen its appeal.

"Dear Mel, We love, love the script! The ending works great. You'll be getting a call from us to start negotiations for the book rights," he begins.

Jesus is such a "likeable" character, Mr Martin's fictional studio boss enthuses, because he "can't seem to catch a break" and everyone can identify with that. But there is a flaw that, he suggests, audiences will not understand. Why did Jesus not use his "superpowers" to save himself? An explanation is in order: cut away to two spectators, have the first pose the question and the second reply, "He can only use his superpowers to save others."

"Stan" proceeds to offer a list of helpful suggestions in memo form.

"Does it matter which garden? Gethsemane is hard to say, and Eden is a much more recognisable garden. Just thinking out loud," he writes.

Then there is the Last Supper. "Could he change water into wine in the Last Supper scene? Would be a great moment, and it's legit: history compression is a movie tradition and it could really brighten up the scene. Great trailer moment, too."

On the lengthy and gruesome scenes of Jesus being whipped, which have forced many cinemagoers to turn their heads, "Stan" remarks briefly: "Love the flaying."

Other suggestions he offers include: "Could the rabbis be Hispanic? There's lots of hot Latino actors now, could give us a little zing at the box office." And: "Possible title change: 'Lethal Passion.' Kinda works."

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http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/03/08/1078594276989.html

Go Steve! No wonder I love this guy so much!

esp. from the guy that star in "leap of faith". i think l-o-f was alot better film,true to life and a better ending

you died and actually woke up in Heaven? Uh. . . What the. . . In college, they said this was all bullshit! What do you mean, 'Do I know how many times I've taken the Lord's name in vain? A million-six? ! Million-six?! Jesus Chri-- , er, million-seven."

:evilgrin:

You mean you been keeping records on me?

He's undeniably brilliant. Guess I'll have to pick up a copy of the New Yorker...

I heart Steve Martin.

He's mocking Hollywood studio bosses. I mean..... "You'll be getting a call from us to start negotiations for the book rights," he begins....

Come on.

To coin a phrase,... "Steve, What makes you so f*cking funny?"