Everyone's a critic: 'Borat'

Three stars (out of four)

I went into the film not knowing what to expect. That is exactly what I got. This "mockumentary" can be described only as savagely entertaining and original.

Comedian Sacha Baron Cohen stars as the culturally oblivious Borat, traveling across the "U.S. and A." to learn about the culture in order to improve his country, Kazakhstan. His journey and interactions with a variety of people is anything but normal. If you pay close attention, behind the vulgar humor there are some lessons about life and how people view things. It comes to prove that Borat is not the only naive one. Some of the funniest and most endearing moments come between Borat and his producer, a large balding man who you get to see more of than you would possibly like.

-- Carrie Lloyd

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Two stars (out of four)

Before you buy your ticket for this movie, I'm sure you already have an idea of the subject matter. Apparently I did, but I still wasn't sure what to expect.

I can remember the day when you went to see a comedy and got a good story and a good-natured laugh. In this movie, the humor is dark, off the wall and gross. I'm sure "Borat" had to offend many people -- those portrayed, some who were watching and some of the cast.

I am asking myself, have I become misguided and cynical about what is shown on the screen? Are the visuals too explicit? I think so.

The contrast of the people in the theater was split: Some were laughing hard, and some were leaving before the end. I did laugh at times, but I also was waiting for the show to end. See this at your own risk; it just might be to your liking.

-- Lindell Brennecke