Tucson lampooned, but why is a mystery
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 08.21.2008
Screenwriter Pam Brady, formerly a writer on "South Park," and co-writer/director Andrew Fleming rip Tucson to satirical shreds in "Hamlet 2."
Just as the kids in South Park mercilessly mock their fictional Colorado town, the people of the movie's version of Tucson disparage their city. Tucson is referred to as "the place dreams go to die" and called unprintable names, all to uproarious effect.
The movie was shot in Albuquerque and depicted as a series of run-down slums with precious few nice areas. Much of the movie takes place at made-up East Mesa High School, which emphasizes sports above all else.
The film picked up buzz at the Sundance Film Festival, where some hailed it as the next "Juno," and was released here Wednesday. The film is lapping up high praise, with the first eight reviews posted on Rottentomatoes.com all positive.
Neither Brady nor Fleming responded to interview requests.
Until we hear from them, we won't know why they chose Tucson as their punching bag.
— Phil Villarreal
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