Jim Carrey fans are in for a treat, as the ‘90s favourite comedy star’s ‘best film ever’ is all set to hit the airwaves today.
1994’s slapstick superhero comedy — which defined a generation and created a sub-genre within the superhero films category — The Mask is all set to air on the BBC today.
The Mask will be broadcast on BBC One today, November 16, at 3.35pm.
Based on Doug Mahnke and John Arcudi’s 1991 comic book series, The Mask was directed by Chuck Russell, with a screenplay penned by Mike Werb and a story written by Michael Fallon and Mark Verheiden and was the first film in the Mask franchise. A Carrey-less sequel, Son of the Mask, was released in 2005.
Starring Jim Carrey in the lead role as Stanley Ipkiss, The Mask was actress Cameron Diaz’s debut film. Joining the lead pair in the cast are Peter Riegert, Peter Greene, Amy Yasbeck, and Richard Jeni.
At the time The Mask released, Carrey was virtually unknown, having just wrapped filming for Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, whilst Diaz was a model with no prior acting experience. After The Mask’s release, there was no looking back for either of the stars, who immediately shot to fame.
Made on a humble $18 million production budget, the superhero comedy went on to become a roaring box office success, grossing a staggering $352 million at the global box office. It was the fourth-highest-grossing film of 1994, and became the reason behind the resurgence of swing music in the 90s.
Not only was The Mask a commercial success, it also garnered praise from critics, having been nominated for the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Carrey also bagged a nomination at the Golden Globe Awards in the Best Actor category.
The film’s official plot summary says: “When timid bank clerk Stanley Ipkiss discovers a magical mask containing the spirit of the Norse god Loki, his entire life changes. While wearing the mask, Ipkiss becomes a supernatural playboy exuding charm and confidence which allows him to catch the eye of local nightclub singer Tina Carlyle. Unfortunately, under the mask’s influence, Ipkiss also robs a bank, which angers junior crime lord Dorian Tyrell, whose goons get blamed for the heist.”
With an 81 per cent critics approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, The Mask was well-loved by the critics, with one writing: “Utilizing wonderful dual turns from its lead and fantastic Oscar-nominated visual effects, The Mask remains one of Jim Carrey’s most fun & wildly entertaining films from when he was at the height of his stardom.”
Another reviewer, showering praise on Carrey, said: “[Jim] Carrey may be the finest comic to come along since Robin Williams.”
While a third critic stated in a glowing review: “When his face turns green and his limbs get limber, Carrey’s pretty much unstoppable. This cartoon-y creation is an amazing fusion of physical comedy and state-of-the- art cinema illusion.”
Audiences were left equally impressed, with one viewer commenting: “Such a fun movie where Jim Carrey does what he does best. The super energetic lively funny character. Jim Carrey’s best movie by far.”
While another fan declared: “Loved it! This movie is in so many ways innovative and groundbreaking. Amazing cinematography and stunning visuals. Great story and nicely brought to screen. Whole cast excels in character, nobody could have portrayed Stanley better than Jim Carrey. Absolutely bonkers, very fast paced and filled with witty one liners I still use to this day. Highly entertaining”
Yet another impressed audience member said: “I have no words on how much I freaking love this movie it’s a perfect combination of action and comedy and it’s my number 1 comfort and favorite movie and The Mask himself is a comfort character that is very close to my heart.”
The Mask will be broadcast on BBC One today, November 16, at 3.35pm.
