11/20/06: Da Ali G Show (2003-2004)As
Borat is vanquished by James Bond and penguins, let’s revisit
our last take on Sacha Baron Cohen. The bride of RightWingTrash recently pointed out how Cohen’s character of Ali G is a much more likable figure than the Kazhakistani. For those still catching up, HBO’s
Da Ali G Show featured several of Cohen’s creations, including Ali G as a bling-adorned Brit reporter covering politics for the younger generation. Think of MTV News without—well, just think of MTV News.
Ali G’s hip-hop journalism was more misinformed than malicious. Cohen ultimately did a fine job of skewering politicians and their desperate attempts to pander to youth. We’re proud to say that conservatives often came out looking good.
Consider Ali G’s
interview with Newt Gingrich. Nothing will ever make Newt seem hip, but our former Speaker is admirable in his composure. Ali begins the interview by asking about welfare reform, with Gingrich noting that the Republican plan was to remove people from welfare after four years.
“But,” asks Ali, “ain’t people just getting into it after four years?”
Gingrich takes that in stride, probably aware of how Brits grow up with the dole as a destination. “We don’t think,” he explains, “that people should earn seniority on welfare.”
This gets Ali wondering if Republicans think unwed fathers should help raise their kids. Newt responds in the affirmative.
“Wha’,” says Ali, “even after they’re born?”
“Yeah,” replies Newt, “that’s the whole point.”
“But if you has already paid for the popcorn, the chocolate, the movie, whatever—the last thing you wanna be thinking about when you getting jiggy is, ‘How much is this going to cost me?’ Make the whole thing unromantic, innit?”
First, ponder how Nancy Pelosi or John Kerry would take time to consider Ali’s point. Then enjoy Gingrich’s gentle but firm admonishment: “Well, if you’re the kind of bum who’s going to walk off and leave your kid, the girl shouldn’t be with you in the first place.”
Da Ali G Show is full of similar fine and unexpected moments. Don’t take our word for it. Each episode would end with Ali’s guest/victim being asked to deliver a public-service announcement with a hip-hop vibe. Yo, check out how
MC Edwin Meese throws down all over poor
Gore Vidal.
Make it your own: The Gingrich interview is on
Da Ali G Show: The Complete First Season, but you’re better off buying
Da Compleet Seereez. Yo.
