By Josie Barker
Oh Jared Hess, where do I begin? Hess, an American filmmaker and voice actor is known for his quirky, distinctive films. According to Hess, his upbringing in rural Idaho was the foundation for these awkward movie styles. Hess pulls out many elements from his real life to contribute to his project’s themes of individuality, and let me tell you, it works wonders. In this article, I review some of the movies Hess has written and directed.
Napoleon Dynamite (2004) – 9/10
For as long as I can remember (which is only about 6 years ago), I have seen so many references to this strange curly-haired man. All these early Napoleon Dynamite references thrown at me made no sense, but now, with the knowledge I have obtained, I understand. I understand that this quirky comedy built on deadpan humor is a phenomenal example of all the ways you can use a low budget. Watching this movie for the first time, I had no clue what I was walking into, but now, I think every minute put into that one hour twenty two minute span of just awkward conversations was worth seeing. This is a great film to see, especially if you just want something amusing to see while hanging out with friends or family.
Nacho Libre (2006) – 6/10
Hess tends to recycle his actors, and truth be told, I like a familiar face here and there, but Jack Black’s role as Nacho Libre was not up to par. When I first watched this movie, I had a strong liking to it, but this may be because it was watched at 4 AM with my best friend. Now, months later, my mind is fresh like a nice piece of printer paper, and I truly saw what Nacho Libre was when watching it last Tuesday on my couch. I wasn’t a fan. I know this is supposedly another one of Jared Hess’s cult classic films, but I just don’t think I fit the target audience’s humor. On the other hand, my thirteen year old brother looked as though this was the funniest thing he’s ever seen. Was I disappointed when watching this? No. But was I enlightened similar to how I was with other Hess movies? Also no.
Gentlemen Broncos (2009) – 10/10
To my dismay, many of those who sit upon my couch and are introduced to some interesting films, frequently do not appreciate them. However, all my boasting paid off with the pleasant feedback received from my comrades while watching Gentlemen Broncos. This is my comfort movie, and I truly think this is as far as cinema will go. The combination of Jennifer Coolidge and my lord and savior Jemaine Clement already was a phenomenal start to the trailer. Furthermore, I’ve never met such a perfect protagonist as Michael Angarano’s portrayal of the character Benjamin Shaw. Additionally the setting in Utah contributed to much of the movie’s mood, such as it did in Napoleon Dynamite with its Idaho surroundings. Truth be told, awkward movies have my heart, and just even the detail of unintentional breaths made by the characters between words stirs my soul. Coming out of watching this movie, I felt as if my chest was lighter; I could do anything. Straight away I started painting, my mind busy with ideas like the great Benjamin Shaw with his Yeast Lord projects. Unfortunately this movie failed to revolutionize compared to its predecessor, Napoleon Dynamite. Viewers say this movie’s humor was too extreme, and was lacking the relatable and charming side, however, I disagree. As opposed to popular opinion, I found this movie even more entertaining and humorous than the cult classic Napoleon Dynamite.
Thelma the Unicorn (2024) – 5/10
Checking Thelma the Unicorn’s movie ratings, I am let down to see it received quite a lot more love than Hess’s other films. I do believe this is undeserved, however, this movie was designed for an audience much younger than I, so I’ll let my middle aged bias out. However, the typical laughter accompanied watching Hess’s movies was absent. I didn’t laugh. Hess also casted himself in this movie, which I find interesting, but no matter what, I could tell his heart wasn’t in this project. Thelma the Unicorn was just okay.
A Minecraft Movie (2025) – 8/10
With all the backlash this movie receives, I honestly thought it was almost perfect. However, my opinion might be warped because I was watching it with pretty hilarious people as well. From what I’ve seen, many people believe this movie didn’t do their childhood game, Minecraft, justice, but I firmly believe otherwise. Sure, I had my doubts, but after watching Jack Black ride on top of Jason Momoa using his long luscious hair as reigns, I had no more negative feedback to give, even with the corniness of the overall movie. I will say, typically Jack Black presents as over the top to me, but in this film, oh boy, Black was made for the role of Steve. Frankly I hadn’t found a good movie in years, so I was pleasantly surprised when watching this. I felt as if a piece in me healed the day A Minecraft Movie came out, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.