Common Sense Media Review
A messy disappointment for Dana Carvey fans.
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Why Age 10+?
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Master of Disguise
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 6 parent reviews
Based on 18 kid reviews
Kids say this comedy is filled with crude humor and slapstick jokes, making it suitable for older children but not recommended for those younger than 9. While many viewers find it hilariously entertaining in a "so bad it's good" way, others criticize its lack of plot and reliance on juvenile gags.
- crude humor
- slapstick comedy
- age-appropriate
- entertaining for kids
- no real plot
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Carvey plays Pistachio Disguisey, the youngest in a family with magical powers to transform themselves. His father (James Brolin) never told him of the family's secret because he wanted to protect him. So little Pistachio does not know why he has a Tourette-like compulsion to imitate everyone he sees. When his parents are captured by bad guy Devlin Bowman (Brent Spiner), who suffers from intestinal distress whenever he tries his evil laugh (now are you laughing?), and it is up to Pistachio to save the day. Pistachio's grandfather (Harold Gould) arrives to give him a few quick lessons in transformation and self-defense.
Is It Any Good?
This misbegotten mess of a movie is a terrible disappointment for fans of Dana Carvey. It is also a disappointment for fans of comedy and fans of movies. It really is hard to imagine how the talented Carvey can have taken what sounded like a can't-miss premise and missed so completely. Carvey's genius for impressions is utterly wasted. So is his charm. So is his time. So is ours.
Weak references to classics like "The Exorcist," "Star Wars," and other oldies will have no meaning to kids. Audience members old enough to recognize Jesse Ventura, Jessica Simpson, and Bo Derek might enjoy their brief cameos. But even at less than 70 minutes, the movie feels endless, with an extended post-credit sequence that just adds insult to injury.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how being able to imitate someone requires very careful observation.
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 2, 2002
- On DVD or streaming : January 28, 2003
- Cast : Brent Spiner , Dana Carvey , Jennifer Esposito
- Director : Perry Andelin Blake
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures
- Run time : 80 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : bathroom humor
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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