Forgotten Characters 2:3

Comic relief is usually a good way of becoming a remembered in films, but comic relief in a comedy that’s already funny is no guarantee that you’ll be remembered. I’m not sure if I’m the only one who remembers this entry, but I know quite a few who don’t. Unfortunately so, since she’s a top notch comedienne. So, here’s a look at a funny lady who’s become forgotten:

                     

Amy Poehler in Mean Girls

As Mrs. George

                

Amy Poehler is too young for the role of Rachel McAdams’ mother; that much is obvious. However, in Mean Girls with the aid of a fake breasts and a plastic-like makeup we have her transformed - kind of. We first meet her on our visit to Regina’s house where she brings drinks to the Plastics and Cady. An apprehensive Cady asks if any liquour is involved to which Poehler deadpans: No. What kind of mother do you think I am? Do you want some though? Because if you’re going to drink, I’d rather you do it in the house. Cady smiles dubiously and we can’t help but laugh. As an SNL stalwart Amy is notorious for her comedic timing. However, her speaking lines are not what sell me on her character - it's her expressions. At the Christmas concert as the Plastics do their annual dance of Jingle Bell Rock, the camera alternately cuts to Amy in the aisle dancing in tandem – every gyration, every twist of the hip. It is one of the funniest moments of Mean Girls and it works because we completely believe that this woman is living vicariously through her daughter and friends. It’s as she tells them, You keep me young.

               

Do you remember Amy? Or did all the funniness in Mean Girls obscure her

Previously Forgotten...