Watch Be Kind Rewind

"Be Kind Rewind" is a 2008 comedy-drama film that explores the power of community, creativity, and friendship amidst struggle and adversity. Written and directed by Michel Gondry, known for his imaginative and unconventional visual style, the movie stars Jack Black, Yasiin Bey (then known as Mos Def), and Danny Glover. The story centers around two friends, Jerry (Black) and Mike (Bey), who work at a run-down video rental store in Passaic, New Jersey, owned by Glover's character, Mr. Fletcher. One day, Jerry becomes magnetized after a failed attempt to sabotage a power plant, causing him to accidentally erase all the VHS tapes in the store. When their only customer, an elderly woman named Miss Falewicz (Mia Farrow), comes in looking for her favorite movie, "Ghostbusters," the duo panic and decide to reenact the movie using a camcorder and homemade props. Surprisingly, Miss Falewicz enjoys their version and asks for more movies to be "sweded," or remade in their low-budget and quirky style.

As word spreads about their unique rental selection, other community members come in with requests for their favorite films to be sweded, creating a sense of excitement and purpose for Jerry, Mike, and Mr. Fletcher. However, when their remade version of a rare and valuable film catches the attention of the actual creator, the trio must work together to save their store and their newfound sense of belonging.

Despite the absurdity of the plot, "Be Kind Rewind" tackles themes of nostalgia, creativity, and the importance of human connection. The film highlights the obsoleteness of physical media and the magic of cinema as a form of escapism and community. It also critiques the corporatization of the film industry and the homogenization of Hollywood blockbusters, as the sweded versions provide a refreshing and personal interpretation of classic movies.

The performances from the cast are charming and endearing, with Black and Bey displaying a genuine chemistry as longtime friends who share a passion for movies. Glover is also noteworthy as the curmudgeonly but well-intentioned Mr. Fletcher, who ultimately comes to appreciate the creativity and innovation of his employees. Mia Farrow brings a sweet and sincere presence to her role as the kind-hearted Miss Falewicz.

One of the most memorable and humorous aspects of the film is the various sweded versions of popular movies that Jerry and Mike create, including "Rush Hour 2," "Robocop," and "Driving Miss Daisy." The low-budget and homemade style of these remakes is reminiscent of the early days of YouTube and user-generated content, showcasing the power of amateur creativity and innovation.

Overall, "Be Kind Rewind" is a fun and heartwarming movie that celebrates the power of film and the importance of community. It offers a nostalgic and creative take on cinema that is sure to leave viewers with a smile on their face.

Be Kind Rewind is a 2008 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 52.