Special Needs (2006) User Reviews

An irreverent comedy that pulls no punches

[hsilikovitz · 8/10 · 5 November 2006]

Written and directed by promising young filmmaker Isaak James (who also has a starring role), "Special Needs" is a hilarious send-up of the mania for reality TV. It is always a challenge for a comedy to take on a subject that's not politically correct (in this case, people with disabilities); this movie succeeds admirably in doing so. Ultimately, "Special Needs" makes us laugh not at the disabled, but at the cruelty and bigotry of those who would exploit them. And yes, it will make you laugh. The ensemble cast, while largely consisting of unknown actors, comes across as genuine, and complements James nicely. If you like the mockumentaries of Christopher Guest, you will enjoy "Special Needs."

Deeply unfunny and quite monotonous

[Leofwine_draca · 1/10 · 2 September 2017]

SPECIAL NEEDS is a deeply unfunny satire of the reality TV show, featuring a game show populated by various disabled characters. It's supposed to be edgy and hard-hitting, but the truth is that real-life TV has long since surpassed the kind of thing that this film is spoofing, and as such it feels very dated indeed. It doesn't help that the filming style is absolutely lousy, with a monotonous execution featuring all of the actors in mid shot talking to and in front of the camera. The lame script doesn't help either; it's no surprise that only Troma were interested in releasing this.

Brilliant!

[mckric · 10/10 · 30 October 2006]

This is a movie that everyone should see. Given the seemingly insatiable appetite for reality TV that somehow still manages to exist, the only question here is who will pick this film up and turn it into an actual show. The satire is broad at times and subtle at others yet the message that comes through is that anyone will do anything for their 15 minutes of fame and in the USA today this is unquestionably so. The story was well laid out, the actors all did a great job and kudos to the actors in the film with actual "special needs". The movie definitely sends a message out about society in general today. Great job on what I'm sure was a labor of love. To those who don't get it, watch it again! To those who did get it, consider yourself part of a "special" group!

A reality television production team set out to create a "handicap money making spectacle".

[whitneyparshall · 10/10 · 3 October 2006]

"Special Needs" is socially relevant against the backdrop of today's exploitation driven entertainment industry. How bold to make a film that involves one of the remaining few truly taboo subjects. Disabilities are universal. If every color, creed and sex has been subject to exploitation, why have we not yet touched disabled persons? This film humanizes the disabled, while dehumanizing the entertainment industry "powers that be." This film had me laughing out loud and pausing to try to understand why. Absurd situations and outrageous caricatures make for a cult-worthy comedy that is as deeply serious as it is funny. I would recommend this film both to those who want a mindless comedy and those who would like to be affected. This will turn the gears in your head and tickle your funny-bone on multiple levels.

Left me wanting more...

[mkesler2 · 10/10 · 9 October 2006]

Talk about non-stop hilarity from beginning to end. "Special Needs" had me in stitches! And what a fast ride! At the end of the movie I found myself wanting for more.

Yes, the subject matter is indeed dark and disturbing but daring, original, genius, and really funny. The entire cast exudes nothing but real talent. The "special" cast members are just that absolutely brilliant! The chemistry among the entire cast clicked perfectly.

I must be honest, there were times throughout the movie where I wasn't sure whether to laugh out loud or try and restrain myself. I said "try". I knew I couldn't and would quickly give in reminding myself after all that the movie is a satire.