Daniel (Matthew Macfadyen) can't have a civilized funeral for his father because one guest is accidentally on acid, another is old and, most significantly, a mean-spirited little person (Peter Dinklage of "The Station Agent") demands 15,000 pounds or he'll show everyone pictures of himself and the deceased going at it. The film is directed by Frank Oz (voice of beloved characters like Yoda of "Star Wars," Cookie Monster of "Sesame Street" and more).

Big question: Why, Fozzie, why?!

Skip it: There are about six jokes in "Death at a Funeral": Simon's on drugs. Uncle Alfie has to make it up the hill in a wheelchair. Now Alfie has to poop. Dad was gay. Peter is short. Howard has an allergic reaction. Seriously, not even one second of this is watchable.

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Catch it: If you think it's OK to ask someone if they plan to remarry in the middle of their spouse's funeral. At least wait until the reception!

Bottom line: Aside from the miserable attempts at comedy--much of it is barely classy enough for "American Pie 2"--Daniel and his brother also never express any acceptance of dad's secret life. To call this rubbish would be an insult to rubbish.

Bonus: A coffin tips over and a body falls out! Hilarious!

Matt Pais is the metromix movies producer.


'Death at a Funeral'

Directed by Frank Oz; screenplay by Dean Craig; photographed by Oliver Curtis; edited by Beverley Mills; music by Murray Gold; production design by Michael Howells; produced by Sidney Kimmel, Laurence Malkin, Diana Phillips and Share Stallings. An MGM release; opens Friday. Running time: 1:30. MPAA rating: R (for language and drug content).

Daniel - Matthew Macfadyen

Martha - Daisy Donovan

Simon - Alan Tudyk

Janel - Keeley Hawes