It’s a familiar journey for many comedic actors: the desire to break free from the confines of laughter and prove their versatility in dramatic roles. Yet, not all attempts are met with success. Jim Carrey, a titan of comedy in the 1990s and early 2000s, demonstrated his ability to transcend genres with films like the haunting biographical drama Man on the Moon (1999) and the surreal sci-fi romance Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004). These performances showcased his depth and range, proving that he could indeed carry a drama. However, this promise was overshadowed by his role in Joel Schumacher's The Number 23, a film that left critics and audiences alike underwhelmed.
Despite its modest box office success, bolstered by an aggressive marketing campaign capitalizing on Carrey's star power, The Number 23 received scathing reviews, earning a mere 7% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While I’ve often defended other collaborations between Schumacher and Carrey, such as Batman Forever, there’s little to redeem The Number 23. The film feels derivative, borrowing heavily from the aesthetics and ideas of other works, with a convoluted central plot revolving around a man obsessed with the number 23 and a book eerily mirroring his life.
Written by Fernley Phillips, whose only other screenwriting credit is this very film, The Number 23 is a chaotic amalgamation of visuals and concepts that never coalesce into a cohesive narrative. As Walter Sparrow (Carrey) unravels after reading the titular book gifted by his wife, convinced of a grand conspiracy, the world around him seems to crumble as well. It’s as if the filmmakers watched masterpieces like Memento and The Machinist, and declared, “We can do that,” without fully understanding the significance of their twists. Instead, the film becomes so entrenched in selling its contrivances that it leaves viewers questioning why they should care.
Carrey’s career boasts a plethora of remarkable films, both comedic and dramatic, but The Number 23 simply doesn’t measure up. Its self-seriousness borders on absurdity, almost tipping back into unintentional humor. Though visually stylish, the film feels dated, a relic of its time. Thankfully, horror enthusiasts can take solace in one of Carrey’s earlier ventures into the genre—a film that, while not entirely serious, delivers its own brand of thrills.
In contrast to the dreary The Number 23, the 1985 horror comedy Once Bitten offers a delightful escape. Directed by Howard Storm, this cult classic follows Jim Carrey’s Mark, a virginal high school student ensnared by a 400-year-old vampire countess played by Lauren Hutton. A charming blend of '80s sexy comedy and supernatural intrigue, Once Bitten has garnered a loyal following over the years, thanks in part to regular airings on Comedy Central during the early 2000s. While certain elements haven’t aged perfectly—what ‘80s comedy does?—the film remains a joyous romp, ranking among the best unconventional vampire movies.
If you’re seeking a taste of horror-infused entertainment featuring Jim Carrey, opt for Once Bitten instead of The Number 23. Or, for pure comedic chaos, revisit Carrey’s infamous portrayal of Fire Marshal Bill on the sketch comedy series In Living Color. Now that is true entertainment.
