What other film can you find a character that steals sweat from a donkey, tries to make a magic love potion, rescues the love of his life and goes on a mad chariot race? All of these insane scenarios and more can be found in A Funny Thing that Happened on the Way to the Forum. This piece of art, a comedy produced in 1966, is a film that created an uproar in both laughter and controversy. Being a musical and a parody, this film does not fit the standard for traditional Roman toga movies.  The characters are very likely to break out in song and dance across the screen. Another contributor to the film’s uniqueness is the acting style. Theatrical and creative acting is incorporated throughout many scenes. Director Richard Lester, was not afraid of breaking stereotypes for traditional films for the 60’s.  Characters make direct eye contact with the audience, creating a more comical and personal affect. 

 

               One item that adds to the controversy of this film is the incorporation of dramatic acting. The actors shout, squeal and squabble over everything and the characters are not afraid to speak their minds. This film is also filled with controversial humor that leads the audience to raise an eyebrow in disbelief on many different occasions. The main character Pseudolus, guides the young Hero to find his lover. Along they way they are faced with many interesting challenges. These include: chasing after a donkey and trying to harvest its sweat, dressing up in drag, fondling over prostitutes and taking mysterious potions. This film is filled with many surprises that keep the audience sitting on the edge of their seats waiting to see what happens next.

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