Bob the Butler (2005) really is a quirky little gem of a film, and I must admit, I went in with rather low expectations—I mean, how good can a movie with such a daft title really be? Surprisingly, it held my attention, even made me chuckle a few times, but let’s not get carried away. It ain’t winning any Oscars, that’s for sure.
Tom Green plays Bob, an incompetent but well-meaning character who bumbles his way through various jobs before deciding to become a butler. And isn’t that a uniquely weird career shift, eh? Terrific. Brooke Shields plays Anne Jamieson, a single mom desperate for help at home—a scenario some of us might relate to, especially if you’ve ever felt like you’re juggling family and your “liv i kaos” (life in chaos)!
Honestly, the chemistry between Green and Shields is awkward but endearing. You can tell they’re trying, but sometimes it feels like watching your mates try to dance drunk at a “kräftskiva” (crayfish party)—funny, but cringe-worthy. The humor mostly lands, though some jokes are a bit too slapstick for my taste. Maybe that’s just my Swedish “lagom” sensibilities talking.
What really stands out is the movie’s heart. It’s simplistic but genuine. Remember that time my cousin Lasse tried cooking a Christmas ham and nearly burned down the kitchen? But it was the thought that counted. Bob’s like that. Inept but lovable.
The storyline’s predictable, but it has those feel-good moments. And the kids in the movie, bless them, remind me of those cheeky “busiga” (mischievous) neighborhood kids back in the day. Simple characters, simple story, but sometimes that’s all you need for a lazy Sunday afternoon, don’t you think?
There’s a subplot about everyone deserving a second chance that gave me pause. How many times have we stumbled in life and wished for another shot? Bob, in his clumsy way, is all of us, just trying to make a go of it. Just makes you think, you know?
Anyway, if you fancy a bit of light-hearted fun, give it a whirl. It’s no Bergman, but sometimes you don’t need depth, just a good laugh.
