Challenged but not retarded

Movies have a way of changing perception. Films have shaped public opinion of the mentally challenged just as they have race or sexuality. Films like "The Ringer," directed by Barry W. Blaustein, have to walk a fine line between tastelessness and sappiness, either taking the role of the mentally challenged too far or failing to push the material far enough to suit mainstream audiences. \nThe mentally challenged rarely get a fair shake in Hollywood. There are big name movies featuring challenged protagonists, but most of these feature straight-laced actors feigning disability. "Rain Man" and "Forrest Gump" both smack of Amos and Andy hopping on stage in blackface. The masquerade may be compelling, but the showman is ultimately a phony. "The Ringer" plays on this Hollywood trend in a twisted way. Steve Barker (Johnny Knoxville) is a regular guy who, because of exceptional circumstances, pretends to be mentally challenged so that he can compete in the Special Olympics. In the process, his preconceived notions are shattered as he discovers that he is competing against legitimate athletes with a lot going for them.\n"The Ringer" isn't crass or crude. It doesn't make fun of the Special Olympics like the similarly premised "South Park" episode. The movie was endorsed by the Special Olympics, and authentically challenged individuals are merged seamlessly with the cast of supporting actors. There isn't the jeering over-the-top presentation that most comedies would have resorted to. Ultimately, the movie wants us to laugh with, not at, the mentally challenged. The result is syrupy and sometimes forced, but the characters manage to stay in stride even when the script falters. The movie only falls apart once it reaches its contrived, feel-good ending.\nThe right audience will have a hard time finding this film. "South Park" enthusiasts and "Jackass" fans looking for cheap laughs and "retard" humor will walk away disappointed. "The Ringer" is best seen as a sports comedy movie, and the athletes have to be taken seriously for the shticks to hit their mark. The sincerity of the movie will ultimately appeal to the very same heartwarmer-loving crowd most likely to be turned off by the film's charged premise.\nThe DVD includes both widescreen and full screen on the same disc. The deleted scenes are funny, and a cut above those from many other movies. Otherwise, the features are a little sparse -- including commentary, a "Look at The Ringer" featurette and two plugs for the Special Olympics.