Sacha Baron Cohen Calls End to Risky Comedies, Cites Societal Dangers
The actor announced his latest film will be his last in the style of characters like Borat, citing the dangers of his comedic approach and the current societal climate.
Sacha Baron Cohen, known for his provocative and often risky comedic characters, has declared that his new film, "Ali G: Who Iz I?," will be his final foray into that style of filmmaking. The 55-year-old actor stated in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter that he seeks roles that challenge him differently and that he is moving away from the character-driven, over-the-top comedies that propelled him to international fame.
Cohen explained his decision stems from a sense of unease about the direction of society, particularly concerning the proliferation of conspiracies and misinformation amplified by social media and artificial intelligence. He views his past work as a way to comment on these issues, stating, "If we don’t have these shared facts, then democracies crumble, and we can’t have a tolerant society. And to make people laugh is therapy."
The actor acknowledged the inherent dangers involved in producing such films, describing them as "the hardest movies to make." He recounted extreme measures taken during the filming of his latest project, including an eight-hour continuous scene shot across 12 locations, which involved gunfire, a medical procedure, drones, and explosions in the desert. Cohen wore a prosthetic head and a fat suit for the scene and hired an endurance specialist to help him cope with the physical demands. Despite precautions, several crew members experienced dehydration and required medical attention.
Cohen, who first gained recognition with "Da Ali G Show" in 2000 and later achieved global success with "Borat" in 2006, has continued to explore a range of characters and roles. His filmography includes "Bruno," "The Dictator," "Who is America?," and "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm," alongside dramatic performances in films like "The Trial of the Chicago 7" and "Les Misérables."
He also noted that he has made efforts to mitigate risks, stating he would not proceed with a scene if he believed it posed an imminent threat to his life. He recalled an instance during the filming of the first "Borat" movie where he aborted a scene after realizing a local police officer's proximity and the potential danger associated with a nearby gun rights rally.
Cohen's bold approach to comedy has garnered critical acclaim, including two Academy Award nominations for writing "Borat" and its sequel. He also received an acting nomination for his role in "The Trial of the Chicago 7."