The Fuccons: Meet the Fuccons!

A series of sketches from Japanese TV, The Fuccons already has a cult following in the U.S. thanks to imports and bootleg DVDs. The Fuccons are an American family who move to Japan when James (the father) is transferred on business. Barbara (the mother) is a bit of a scatterbrain but is savvy enough to attempt (if not succeed) in making good impressions. And Mikey (the young son) is a mischievous schoolboy with a crush on a cute classmate. Oh, and the Fuccons are also mannequins—dressed in the clothing and hairstyle of the mid-1950s—as are the other cast members, lending a creepy and funny (albeit to a point) feel to the proceedings. The Fuccons represents a distinctive brand of rude Japanese surreal comedy that only rarely finds its way across the Pacific, and while it is an acquired taste, the sketches here serve up some of the weirdest laughs to be found in the world of anime. Unfortunately, the novelty of an all-mannequin cast wears off rather quickly. Still, underground comedy enthusiasts will want to check out this bargain-priced sampler featuring eight episodes, presented on a dual-language disc, rated TV-14. A strong optional purchase. [Note: The Fuccons, OH! Mikey is also available, with It's a Fuccon World slated for release on Apr. 25.] Aud: P. (P. Hall)