Lord Loves A Working Man The Jerk

Okay, hear me out. I know what you're thinking. The Jerk? Really? But before you grab your pitchforks, let's chat.

We're talking about Navin R. Johnson, a simple, adopted white son of black sharecroppers. He embarks on a journey to find his special purpose in life.

Why I secretly (or not-so-secretly) love The Jerk

First off, it's hilarious. Steve Martin at his absolute peak. The sight gags alone are pure gold.

Remember the "He hates these cans!" scene? Classic. Or how about the Opti-Grab?

But beyond the laughs, there's something...endearing about Navin. He's utterly clueless, yes. But he's also optimistic and kind.

He never intentionally hurts anyone. Even when things go sideways (which is, like, constantly), he tries to do the right thing.

The Working Man's Hero?

Here's where it might get controversial. Navin is, in a weird way, a symbol of the working stiff. He wants to make something of himself.

He craves success. He just doesn't quite know how to get there, and hilariously stumbles along the way.

He's us, trying to figure things out. Maybe without the exploding toilets, hopefully.

Consider his entrepreneurial spirit. The Opti-Grab! A seemingly brilliant invention, albeit fatally flawed.

It’s the epitome of the American dream gone slightly, catastrophically, wrong.

He's got the hustle. The drive. Just… the execution needs work.

The "Lord Loves a Working Man" Angle

Now, let's get to the title's inspiration: "Lord Loves a Working Man." It's a key line in the film.

It’s delivered with such earnestness by Navin. He truly believes hard work pays off.

And in a roundabout, karmic sort of way, maybe it does. He ends up back where he started, but richer for the experience.

He is loved by his family. He found his purpose. Which is, you know, being loved.

The film pokes fun at the idea. It suggests that even the most inept can find happiness through honest labor. (and a little luck).

Is It Problematic? Absolutely.

Let's be real. Some aspects of The Jerk haven't aged perfectly. It’s a product of its time.

There are definitely jokes that wouldn't fly today. But that doesn't negate the core humor and heart.

I'm not saying it's a masterpiece of social commentary. It's a silly, goofy movie.

So, What's the Point?

My point is this: amidst the slapstick and ridiculousness, there's a relatable message.

Navin's journey is about finding your place. About the value of hard work, even when it leads to disaster.

It's about embracing the absurdity of life. And maybe, just maybe, that's why Lord loves a working man, even a jerk like Navin.

It’s a reminder to laugh at ourselves, and to keep trying, even when things go hilariously wrong.

So, next time you're feeling down on your luck, pop in The Jerk. It'll make you feel better. Or at least, make you laugh.

And maybe, just maybe, you'll agree with my slightly unpopular opinion. The Jerk is secretly brilliant.