Napoleon Dynamite

Napoleon Dynamite is currently streaming in Australia on Stan, and in the US on Amazon Prime Video and Philo, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. Its 7/10 TMDB score, built from 2,189 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Jon Heder is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. Put it on tonight on Stan and see for yourself.

There is a reason Napoleon Dynamite keeps coming up in conversation. The jokes in Napoleon Dynamite land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. A listless and alienated teenager decides to help his new friend win the class presidency in their small western high school, while he must deal with his bizarre family life back home. Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2004. What keeps Napoleon Dynamite from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Comedy fans looking for a reliably funny watch will find it in Napoleon Dynamite. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Jon Heder's comic timing carries it through its weaker moments. The kind of comedy you recommend to someone who claims they do not watch much.