Most would agree that it hits below the belt for a comedian to make fun of a child with disabilities. However, Canadian stand-up comic Mike Ward boldly uses this type of material in his set, citing his right to free speech. This begs the question: Can the right to one’s creative freedom circumvent censorship? Polish-Canadian documentary filmmaker, Saturnin Kondratiew, explores this divisive topic in his new film, American Troll.

The target of Mike’s attempt at comedy is Jérémy Gabriel, a deaf, French Canadian singer, born with Treacher Collins syndrome. The fact that Jérémy is a public figure is enough for Mike to consider him fair game. Through sit down interviews with Mike, his comedian peers, and supporters, the agreed upon sentiment seems to be that once someone is famous, all bets are off. “No one has a right to not be offended,” says one interviewee. Mike Ward’s off-color joke–essentially questioning why Jérémy is still alive–leads to one of the most controversial freedom of speech cases in Canadian history.

The Price of a Joke

Should comics face a courtroom as a result of their jokes? The question poses a fine line to walk, and filmmaker Saturnin collects enough evidence on the “neigh” side to make the case that we as a society are becoming too sensitive. People like Jérémy who find offense in derogatory statements are “grievance collectors” and insecure human beings who “seek out problems”. Whether or not you agree with these points of view, American Troll stands strong in its conviction that political correctness is the problem and not the joke itself.

The film misses the opportunity to engage in a more rounded debate by mostly hearing from people who reinforce Mike Ward’s reasonings. It seems that Jérémy, the subject of his creative liberty, is left to fend for himself once again. From a production perspective, American Troll employs the traditional documentary stylings with talking head interviews and a surplus of b-roll. While the film is successful in defending this point of view, the abundance of stock footage and the abrupt music edits distract from the intended messaging.

Director’s Statement

“A monumental free speech case in Canadian history! This documentary is a reminder that, in the face of adversity, maintaining strong beliefs can lead to personal growth, mockery, depression, grey hairs, unwanted attention, online cruelty, repeating mistakes, and very expensive lawyer bills.” – Saturnin Kondratiew

Takeaway

Regardless of where you fall on the ethics meter, American Troll presents as a lighthearted attempt at normalizing dark subject matter. And one important detail to acknowledge is that, despite its title, American Troll takes place in Canada.