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Private Parts

Starring: Howard Stern
Director: Betty Thomas
Genre: Comedy
Year: 1997
Rating: 3 / 5

I have always had certain preconceived notions about outspoken radio personality Howard Stern. He generally inspires rather strong-minded opinions in people - one either loves him or loathes him. I have always counted myself a member of the latter group, although, after seeing Private Parts, I may have changed my tune. Stern's semi-autobiographical film tells the story of Stern's rise from gawky teenager to world-famous celebrity, offering a surprisingly candid take on the controversial personality's career. One is left wondering if Stern could really be as - gasp! - likeable as he comes across on film, and, if so, why he works so hard to alienate so many people.

Howard Stern (playing himself) decided at a young age to pursue a career in radio, even if his first experiences gave no hint of the fame that would eventually find him. Hopping from Connecticut to Detroit to Washington, before finally finding a home in New York, Stern is willing to do anything for his fledgling radio career. Even uproot his adoring wife Alison (Mary McCormack), who, for all of Stern's faults, accepts him for who he is. Together they set out to turn the world of radio upside-down, despite all the hurdles along the way. Featuring a surprisingly frank style of humor largely ignored at the time, Stern offends executives and advertisers while setting new ratings standards, becoming the largest personality in the country's most populous city.

As Private Parts is Howard Stern's movie - he wrote and stars in it - it is difficult to separate fact from fiction. Admittedly, I was suckered into seeing this film, my dislike for the man being well known. He often comes across as rather self-deprecating, a feeling conveyed in his radio shows as well. Tired of catering to the wishes of his supervisors with canned radio bits, Stern is determined to succeed on his own merits. He decides to simply be himself, bringing his "every man" rants to the studio and delving into his own personal life. Flanked by trusty companions Robin Quivers and Fred Norris, Howard Stern proceeds to set the world on fire, soaring to the very top.

Howard Stern deserves all of the credit for this movie, or all of the blame, as the case may be. Private Parts, as I now know from personal experience, is a shockingly effective introduction into the life of a very famous celebrity. Known for his willingness to do just about anything and buck convention at every turn, Stern has become a sort of hero for the working man. It is easy to see traces of his style in radio disc jockeys around the country, as others try to recapture that brash, carefree style. Whether his style is really worth imitating is a matter for others to debate. I, for one, am content in the realization that Private Parts is an enjoyable diversion for those who love - and loathe - Howard Stern.

Cast:

Certification: Rated R for language and nudity.
Running Time: 109 minutes.

Additional Info: Internet Movie Database
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