Filmmakers Nick Doob and Chris Hegedus follow the comedian turned political satirist for two years, as he promotes his book Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them, launches the liberal radio network Air America, stumps for John Kerry's presidential campaign and even infiltrates the Republican National Convention.
Franken is at his funniest when fearlessly sparring with pundits from the extreme right, including Fox News' Sean Hannity, Bill "Shut up, shut up!" O'Reilly and the venomous Ann Coulter, who's all spindly and spidery in her ubiquitous black dress (all that's missing is a red hourglass marking). Franken maintains the advantage not only in the wit department but with veracity as well, using their own ridiculous assertions and "truthiness" against them.
This slice of Franken's life feels just a bit on the slight side, but the fact it leaves you wanting more is a credit to his casual charm and snarky humor. Perhaps we'll see more of him in the political arena, since he hints at a 2008 run for the Minnesota Senate. If O'Reilly's hysterically reactionary rants and attempted lawsuits are any indication, Franken is just the guy to shake things up. It could be a Smalley world after all.