Year One (2009)

"Year One (2009)" follows Zed (Jack Black) and Oh (Michael Cera), two hapless hunter-gatherers expelled from their village for eating forbidden fruit. This expulsion sets them on an unlikely and hilariously misguided adventure through the ancient world, encountering biblical figures and stumbling into historical events. They navigate treacherous landscapes, participate in bizarre rituals, and generally wreak havoc with their modern sensibilities in a world that is clearly not ready for them. The film utilizes the "banished odd couple on a journey" trope, taking it to comedic extremes in a prehistoric and biblical setting. While perhaps not as universally lauded as some of Ramis' earlier works, "Year One" deserves a place on a list of his best movies for several reasons. Ramis' signature comedic style is evident throughout, relying on witty dialogue, absurd situations, and the juxtaposition of modern humor with ancient settings. Furthermore, it demonstrates his willingness to experiment with genre and push comedic boundaries. Although the film received mixed reviews upon release, it showcases Ramis' talent for crafting memorable characters, building engaging stories, and exploring societal themes through a comedic lens, making it a unique and worthwhile addition to his filmography. It is the last film that Harold Ramis directed.