Funny Bones (1995)

In Las Vegas, when a young comic (Oliver Platt) attempts to follow in the footsteps of his legendary comedian father (Jerry Lewis), his act bombs terribly and he flees to Blackpool, England where he spent his early childhood years. It is there that he discovers some unexpected facts about his family background. Directed by Peter Chelsom (SHALL WE DANCE?), the film is often referred to as a comedy/drama which is misleading. It's more of a drama with some comedy but the emphasis is on the drama which is about two families torn apart by past indiscretions and tragedies. The film's opening is confusing and I'm still not sure what happened but once the film finds its rhythm, it slowly builds to a satisfying conclusion even if the fate of the characters are left open. Jerry Lewis is used here (as he was in KING OF COMEDY) strictly as an actor, you won't find the zany Lewis of his comedy classics. If the film belongs to anyone, it belongs to Lee Evans (THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY) as the troubled young comic haunted by a tragic event that ruined his life. Certainly not a great film but a solid one that could use a little more attention. With Leslie Caron, Oliver Reed, Ruta Lee and Ian McNeice.