Amusing - For Sci-Fi Fans At Least...

The independent film, Free Enterprise, was sold as a movie about two film makes who meet their idol, William Shatner of Captain Kirk fame, and are shocked when he is not who they expect him to be. The fact that this is a film about the reality of movies and actors makes this film unique, and perhaps ironic. But there's a lot more to this film than the William Shatner bend. The directors explore human relationships (both friends and male/female), the idea of embracing a dream, and, not to be forgotten, the inner quirkiness most people really behold.

With that said, Fee Enterprise more or less appeals to a large audience in some form or another. "Boy meets girl" lovers can appreciate the exploration of male/female relationships, especially with regard to Claire. Some viewers may be intrigued by two friends who equally lack respect for the other's habits, and eventually confront this.

However, there's no denying that the core target of Free Enterprise is the stereo-typical science fiction finatic. More specifically, it is geared toward Gen-Xers. Afficionados of Star Trek, marvel comic books, or classic science fiction film will all adore Free Enterprise. The innumerable line references, movie references, posters in the background, and other subtle and not so subtle references litter the movie. It's fun to pick them out and place them. The wake-up call, specifically with regard to Shatner's personality, is also welcome. Yet those uninfatuated with any such topic might find themselves lost. Fair warning - half of the quotes, the dream sequence, movie references, and appreciation of the Shatner satire all rely on the viewer's interest in those topics. Any viewer uninterested should, in fairness, chose another film, or be prepared to miss half the wittiness.

A final recommendation - if you can, be sure to get the DVD version. In addition to many welcome extras, the commentary sheds a lot of insight into the satire. There's also an invaluable subtitle track that explains the sci-fi or other references. The lingo glossary also helps clarify the movie. There are some very worthwhile scenes among the 30 minutes of deleted footage - mostly notably, Shatner's personal speech.

Sci-Fi finatics - this is one you won't want to miss! Everyone else... if you've got nothing better to do on a Friday night... well why not?