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Pistachio (Dana Carvey) is the modern-day descendant of the Disguisey family, to whom generations
ago, was given the ability -- from father to son -- to transform into a range of identities for the purpose of combating evil. Though unaware of having this power,
Pistachio's "work" is about to begin. His father, restaurant owner Frabbizio (James Brolin), retired from fighting evil, is kidnapped by his enemy Devlin Bowman (Brent
Spiner) who makes him us his various disguises to steal valuable treasures to augment his (Bowman) riches.
Often mocked and ridiculed for his puny and strange appearance, Pistachio develops an inferiority complex. His grandfather (Harold Gould) comes to his aid and teaches tim to activate his ability and to use the art and technique of managing his various identities. His debut begins with saving his father. Will the help given enable him to save his father?
In spite of his six years aways from the limelight, Dana Carvey is still recognized and known as
the standup comic, who has won recognition and awards for his craft. The many characters and identities he takes on for The Master of Disguise
are funny, of the farcical kind. As his many transformations and behavior are stretched to spectacular proportions, these form the central idea, with hardly a plot to speak of. Viewers who like impersonations of this type will have good laughs, while others would want more substance and sense to the story. The comic in Carvey is easily expressed, having honed his craft, no matter how absurd the characters are.
Pistachio is such a mixed-up young man who talks nonsense, give unintelligible answers, hears
voices, is clumsy and unfocused that viewers need to take effort to see if he knows and understands what is happening.
Still, Pistachio is shown as determined to rescue his father and mother, and that he really loves them. The obvious conclusion must be yes, even though he looks and acts silly and mentally challenged most of the time. He listens to his grandfather, which is clear and learns from him, though in a bumbling way. This may not be the comedy you expect.
(Date reviewed: November 21, 2002)
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