Phases of Reality: Man on the Moon (1999)

Screen Cares

Jennie rounds out her movie picks for season two of Screen Cares with the 1999 film Man on the Moon. She and Sarah delve into the themes of performance, authenticity, truth, and empathy that have emerged throughout the course of the season through their discussions of various movies. The late comedian and performance artist Andy Kaufman, played by actor Jim Carrey in the film, serves as guide, ghost, moral litmus test, and complex human case study in this episode’s conversation. Jennie’s reflections on the film uncover her love for the absurd, enjoyment of benevolent mischief, appreciation for the arts, and empathy for the heart at the center of even the most flawed individuals. The movie Man on the Moon is the perfect launching pad for a conversation about what is real in the world and within ourselves.

Man on the Moon IMDB Page

For those who are Deaf or hard of hearing, please visit this link for the transcript of this episode of Screen Cares: Episode 32 Transcript

Screen Shares Rating:

• Man on the Moon is a great Work Screen, as Sarah explains, the difficult character of Andy Kaufman provides fertile ground for workplace conversations about boundaries, unique contributors, and personal responsibility to the group.
• Solo Screen Man on the Moon is the kind of odd-ball comedy that finds its strength in complex feelings and pleasant chuckles. Watching along can give the feeling have sharing an inside joke with the film.

Screen Sparks:

Discuss and contemplate these Screen Sparks on your own or with anyone who may benefit from a moment to reflect on reality, authenticity, and empathy.Then log onto our socials pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube) share your thoughts with the Screen Cares Community this week.

1. What things do you KNOW are true?
2. How do things that aren’t real-like fiction based movies, stand-up, or literature-help us define what is real?
3. Does believing make you a sucker or someone who assumes the best?

Resources & Background:

Ending quote from the episode from R.E.M. Bassist Mike Mills:

Man on the Moon Music Video by R.E.M. 1992

Cautionary Tales Ep 7 – Bowie, jazz, and the unplayable piano

Jim and Andy: The Great Beyond IMDB Page

Andy Kaufman Panhandles in David Letterman's Audience 1980

Complete Carnegie Hall Performance ending in Andy Kaufman Taking the Audience Out for Mi

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