Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan Christian Review
Sitting down to watch Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan is like stepping into a carnival funhouse, where every distorted mirror reflects not just absurdity but also some deeply uncomfortable truths. It’s hilariously chaotic and brilliantly constructed, yet it leaves you with a lingering sense of unease. If laughter is the best medicine, then Borat delivers it in a double-edged syringe, blending slapstick antics with biting satire. But for Christians, the question remains: at what cost does this laughter come?
The Laughter That Hurts: Comedy with Consequences
If you’ve ever laughed so hard it physically hurt, you’ll understand what Borat is going for. But this isn’t just lighthearted fun—this is comedy from what could only be described as the danger zone. Sacha Baron Cohen, the creative force behind the titular character, takes you on a whirlwind journey where no societal norm, prejudice, or taboo is left unexamined.
You’ll find yourself laughing before you can even ask, “Wait, should I be laughing at this?” The comedy pulls you in with such velocity that there’s barely time to pause and reflect. It’s a wild ride, but also a morally complex one, especially for those whose worldview is shaped by the teachings of Christ. Can humor that so often pushes the boundaries of decency coexist with Christian values? It’s a tough knot to untangle.
Satire on Steroids: Exposing the Flaws in Society
The genius of Borat lies in its ability to lay bare the flaws and contradictions in human behavior. Through the exaggerated, bumbling persona of Borat Sagdiyev, Cohen shines a spotlight on racism, sexism, anti-Semitism, and the unchecked ego of American exceptionalism. It’s raw, it’s ridiculous, and it’s uncomfortably revealing.
For Christians, the film’s satirical takedown of prejudice aligns with the call to confront injustice. Proverbs 31:8-9 urges believers to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” and to “defend the rights of the poor and needy.” In its own way, Borat acts as a loud, unfiltered voice for those silenced by ignorance and bigotry.
But let’s not sugarcoat it—this voice isn’t always easy to listen to. The film uses humor as a weapon, and while it’s effective, it’s also messy. Jokes that land brilliantly for some may feel unnecessarily crude or offensive to others. This duality is what makes Borat so polarizing; it’s either a masterclass in satire or an exercise in tasteless provocation, depending on where you draw the line.
When Laughter Meets Discomfort
One of Borat’s greatest strengths—and perhaps its most significant challenge for Christian viewers—is its ability to make you laugh at things that, under normal circumstances, you wouldn’t dare find funny. Cohen’s genius lies in his improvisational ability to provoke unfiltered reactions from unsuspecting participants. The resulting scenarios are absurdly entertaining but also deeply revealing, often exposing prejudices and ignorance that lurk just below the surface.
Consider the scenes where Borat interacts with everyday Americans, whether it’s a rodeo crowd cheering at his outlandish remarks or a group of college students indulging in casual misogyny. These moments are hilarious on the surface but sobering upon reflection. They force viewers to confront the uncomfortable reality that such attitudes still exist—and thrive—in parts of our culture.
As Christians, this presents a moral dilemma. While the humor serves to expose societal flaws, the means by which it’s achieved can feel exploitative. Are we laughing at the individuals caught in Cohen’s satirical crosshairs, or are we laughing at the larger truths their reactions reveal? The distinction matters, especially when considering the biblical call to treat others with kindness and respect.
Crude, Clever, and Controversial
There’s no getting around it: Borat is crude. The film revels in vulgarity, from its language to its visuals, pushing boundaries that many would argue should remain firmly intact. Full-frontal nudity, graphic jokes, and outrageous scenarios are all par for the course. For some, these elements will be a dealbreaker, and that’s entirely valid.
But beneath the shock value lies a deeper layer of cleverness. Borat isn’t crude for the sake of being crude; it’s crude because it’s holding a mirror to the absurdity of societal norms. It’s Mark Twain meets Monty Python, with a dash of Jackass thrown in for good measure. This blend of high and lowbrow humor creates a uniquely compelling experience, even if it’s not always a comfortable one.
As Christians, it’s essential to approach such content with discernment. Ephesians 5:4 warns against “filthiness, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of place.” While Borat undoubtedly falls into these categories at times, its overarching goal—to challenge prejudice and provoke thought—sets it apart from mere shock comedy.
A Critique of American Exceptionalism
One of Borat’s most pointed critiques is aimed squarely at American exceptionalism. Through Borat’s exaggerated observations and interactions, the film exposes the pride and arrogance that often accompany the belief that America is inherently superior to other nations.
For Christians, this critique is particularly relevant. Pride is a recurring theme in Scripture, and it’s rarely portrayed in a positive light. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us that “pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Borat serves as a satirical reminder of the dangers of unchecked nationalism and the importance of humility, both on a personal and societal level.
Can We Laugh and Still Reflect?
At its core, Borat is a film that challenges viewers to laugh while simultaneously reflecting on the deeper issues at play. It’s a tricky balance, and not everyone will feel comfortable navigating it. For some, the film’s provocative humor will overshadow its message, making it difficult to engage with its satire in a meaningful way.
But for those willing to look beyond the surface, Borat offers a unique opportunity to confront societal flaws in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s not a film that spoon-feeds its message; instead, it invites viewers to wrestle with the complexities of its humor and the truths it reveals.
Final Thoughts: A Balancing Act of Satire and Morality
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s wildly funny, deeply provocative, and undeniably crude. For Christian viewers, it presents a unique challenge: how do we engage with content that simultaneously entertains, offends, and enlightens?
The answer will vary from person to person. Some will find the film’s humor incompatible with their faith, while others will see it as a valuable tool for reflection and cultural critique. Ultimately, the decision to watch—or not watch—Borat should be guided by prayerful discernment and a commitment to aligning our choices with our values.
Rating: 7/10
While Borat loses points for its crude content and potential to offend, its sharp satire and insightful critique make it a film worth considering for those willing to navigate its challenges. It’s not a film for everyone, but it’s a film that everyone can learn something from—if they’re willing to look beyond the laughter.
