Delta Farce

Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this lowbrow war send up is aimed at 13-year-olds who like broad jokes based on stereotypes. Since the story is about three dopey reservists who confuse Mexico for Iraq, there are several culturally insensitive moments that portray Mexicans (not to mention Southern men) very stereotypically. Language includes "s--t" and "retard." Star Larry the Cable Guy and his pals spew many fart jokes and fire many rounds of ammunition for their "mission." Families with loved ones deployed in Iraq probably won't be amused, even if the movie is dedicated to the troops.
Community Reviews
Report this review
Goofy
Report this review
What's the Story?
A recently jilted Larry and his loser buddies Everett (DJ Qualls) and Bill (Bill Engvall) hole up at their state Army reservists' base for a weekend of drinking and hunting. When they're activated by hard-nosed Sergeant Kilgore (Keith David channeling R. Lee Ermey from Full Metal Jacket), they still don't understand the severity of being called up for duty. Sleeping in the air transport on the way to Fallujah, they accidentally get ejected and don't realize they are in fact in Mexico instead. The three amigos come across two Mexican men speaking Spanish but still believe they're in Iraq. The Mexicans, realizing that the American soldiers are indeed as dense as their helmets, lure the threesome to their besieged village to ward off bandits led by Carlos Santana (no, not the musician, the underrated character actor Danny Trejo from Grindhouse and Spy Kids).
Is It Any Good?
David and Trejo are compelling supporting players, but even their presence can't make DELTA FARCE watchable. The war just isn't amusing, and neither is portraying red-state soldiers and Mexicans as stereotypical buffoons. And that's something moviegoers on every point of the political spectrum would probably agree upon.
No matter how viewers feel about the current war in Iraq, it's probably safe to say that most families don't consider it a funny topic. Apparently Larry the Cable Guy -- otherwise known as the "Git 'er done" member of the Blue Collar Comedy group -- and his pal, director C.B. Harding, thought otherwise when they developed this war movie parody.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether this movie is a criticism of the war or a tribute to the troops it's dedicated to. Is it funny to ridicule the military, the war, and active reservists? Why or why not? How are Mexicans portrayed? What stereotypes does the film exploit? Does calling something a "spoof" mean it's OK to go for laughs based on labels and preconceived notions?
Movie Details
- In theaters: May 11, 2007
- On DVD or streaming: September 4, 2007
- Cast: Bill Engvall, DJ Qualls, Larry the Cable Guy
- Director: C.B. Harding
- Studio: Lionsgate
- Genre: Comedy
- Run time: 100 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG-13
- MPAA explanation: crude and sexual humor.
- Last updated: August 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate