The Amateurs chonicles the adventures of a group of friends in a small town who decide to make a porn film, only to find out it's not as easy as it looks. Although filled with graphic sexual language, this amusing movie contains very little physical activity in that area. Star Jeff Bridges explains, "It's as if Frank Capra made a porn film." 

Bridges shines as Andy Sargentee, a down-and-out divorcee who’s the ringleader of the wannabe movie moguls. Andy sees porn everywhere and believes big bucks await anyone who makes an adult film. Standing out with strong supporting performances are Ted Danson, William Fichtner and Joe Pantoliano as three of Andy’s cohorts. Danson’s character tries to convince all his straight buddies he’s not gay; Fichtner portrays a church handyman who just wants “to watch” the filming; and Pantoliano begs to be the writer/director “because he’s taken a film class” at a community college. Tim Blake Nelson, Isaiah Washington, Patrick Fugit, Jeanne Tripplehorn and Glenne Headley round out the fine ensemble cast.

Despite their moviemaking plans, obstacles stand in the way of our intrepid porn peddlers. After rallying the town to support their film, the biggest problem involves finding people to be in the sex scenes. A local prostitute (Headley) finally agrees, as do two women from a bed store (!) and a young lady who works in a fast-food restaurant. However, filming these scenes results in hilarious mayhem more than competent moviemaking -- and the brother of one actress exacts his revenge for the “exploitation” of his sister. Will Andy and his gang be able to salvage their movie? Watching how they manage to do so is more fun than a day at the circus.

With his first film, director/writer Michael Traeger shows considerable talent for dealing with the absurd. And he seems to know how to bring out the best in his actors. However, in the interest of full disclosure, I must admit I’m a sucker for films about what goes on behind the scenes while creating a movie -- and this one really tickled my funnybone. (Capsule review)

(Released by First Look Studios and rated “R” for sexual content and language. DVD bonus features include a “Making of Featurette,” outtakes and preview.)