Overview"Poolboy: Drowning Out the Fury" is a 2011 satirical funny function movie directed by Garrett Brawith. Set in the 1990s, it operates on an amusing faux-backstory structure that the film is a re-mastered and re-edited variation of a supposed 1980s exploitation movie. The film stars Kevin Sorbo as the revenge-driven swimming pool cleaner Sal Bando, also referred to as "Poolboy".
PlotThe plot picture is a comical mix of satire, racism, and exploitation. A Vietnam War veteran, Sal Bando (Poolboy), is exiled to Mexico for a criminal activity he didn't dedicate. There, he hatches a plan for the ultimate revenge versus those who have wronged him and exploited his individuals - the pool cleaners.
Action and Set PiecesThe film takes an over-the-top mockumentary technique, including inflated action scenes and unreasonable set pieces. This consists of but is not limited to weapons, machetes, and a solid cast of kooky characters who add to the madness. All these components are more brought by the absurd dialogue and outrageous story development.
CastThe film's cast is something of a wildcard lineup, with Kevin Sorbo leading the pack in a plain departure from his usual functions. The supporting cast consists of Danny Trejo, Robert LaSardo, and Jason Mewes, each contributing something unique to the humorous pastiche.
Design and Tone"Poolboy: Drowning Out the Fury" deeply immerses itself in a self-aware design, satirizing not simply the clichéd styles of exploitation films from the 80s, but likewise the behind-the-scenes egotism of imaginary director Saint James Street James, played by Paul Ben-Victor. The narrative is consistently laced with absurdism and non-sequiturs, keeping an unrelenting speed that leaves no room for subtlety.
Crucial ReceptionCritically, the movie received a rather combined reception. While some appreciated the outright humor and satire, others found it exceedingly exaggerated. The movie was praised for its attack on racial stereotypes, 1980s belief, and media absurdities, with Kevin Sorbo's performance significantly appreciated for delivering an entirely unanticipated turn. Nevertheless, the movie's relentless pursuit of exploiting every scene for a laugh was kept in mind to obscure the satire to some degree, turning it into the very thing it apparently looked for to mock.
Conclusion"Poolboy: Drowning Out the Fury" is a montage of over-the-top humor, satire, and action sequences made with a goal to parody. The motion picture attempts to stroll the thin line in between commentary and becoming the object of its commentary. While the movie is not for everyone, it effectively provides laughs for those who appreciate the ridiculousness and purposeful kitsch of retro exploitation films.
Top Cast