Forman and Carrey succeeded in making a movie that’s not merely about Kaufman, but that ultimately projects a personality and stands for Kaufman. We admired and appreciated the bizarre and enigmatic tone that the movie creates. As Andy left people wondering, even those close to him, so this film left us guessing with characteristic Forman flair.

For those who love the comedy of the 80’s and particularly Kaufman’s work, this movie may have special meaning, and as such, it is a fitting memorial. Even for those who, like us, are not familiar with Kaufman’s antics and career, the film gives enough context to what was happening on TV and in the culture in general to make sense. Also, there is genuine nostalgia in reassembling much of the cast of the long running "Taxi".

The story, however, doesn’t try to express a tangible message or meaning outside of paying homage to Andy’s career as a comedian. Either that was intentional because Andy remained a mystery to himself and the world, or the filmmakers were unable to develop a deeper essence of his character. Still, the film offers much enjoyment.

Some of the humor is rough, grating, achingly challenging. People are humiliated. Even death is staged to get elaborate laughs. It is funny, and we were howling. But Man on the Moon will leave some, like Kaufman’s real performances, puzzled, assaulted, and insulted. On the other hand, Kaufman was a principled man of sorts. He refused to do drug simulations, and he thumbed his nose at the studios and those who would confine or pigeon hole him.

So if you can stomach rough humor, if you like Jim Carrey, if you want to see something of the comedic history of the 80’s, if you want to see a good recreation of Andy Kaufman, or if you want to be entertained by a film that ultimately proved a bit hollow, by all means see this one.

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