2009 Rewind: The Invention of Lying

 


This year films from 2009 are celebrating a 15th Anniversary. I will be looking at five films from 2009 that I've enjoyed as part of an anniversary celebration. Today, I'm looking at The Invention of Lying.

Mark Bellison: Anyway. The story you're about to see takes place in a world where the human race has never evolved the ability to tell a lie. This is a typical town in that world. As you can see, people have jobs and cars and houses and families, but everyone tells the absolute truth. There's no such thing as deceit or flattery or fiction. People say exactly what they think. And sometimes that can come across as a bit harsh. But they've got no choice in the matter. It's their nature.

The Invention of Lying
Starring: Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner, Louis C.K., Tina Fey, and Rob Lowe
Director: Ricky Gervais and Matthew Robinson
About: You either like the Gervais style of comedy or you don't. I have often found it funny, even if the subject is challenging. That's the case with The Invention of Lying, a little comedy that most probably don't remember. It sets us in a world where there is no lying. People don't know how to lie, it's not possible. That is until Mark (Gervais) discovers he has the power to lie. That makes him something like a God. What's interesting is the rest of the plot of the film. Gervais is an avowed Atheist. This film centers on his character then providing hope to people by creating the idea of God and Heaven. It's an interesting bit for comedy and questions but it's also an engaging thought exercise, or it was for me. As a person of faith, I found it engaging and challenging, which is another reason why the film stood out to me. So, you might not have seen this film when it was released. And you might not enjoy Gervais' style of comedy. But if you're looking for something different and a little clever, give this one a try.

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