I started a huge controversy after seeing this film with a group from my husband's church. In the discussion afterward, everyone agreed that it was a pleasant, light spoof, well done and the music was great.

I, however, pointed out that the film gradually, insidiously led us down the path to where we were cheering for the bad guys, condoning the lying and cheating. Everyone wanted the townspeople to succeed in their deception, and everyone was unconsciously agreeing that it's OK to cheat the government, steal the money, join the conspiracy because everyone felt that their cause was just. Roles were reversed, and the folks upholding ethics were considered roadblocks, while the actual perpetrators were portrayed as good ole folks with family values and endearing charms.

Like many messages in the media today, this is an example of how we are de-sensitized to ethical decay and are sometimes unwitting victims of situational ethics. I found the movie interesting, but was very disturbed by the message. And I was very disturbed that no one else in the room (at first) felt morally outraged that the bad guys won.

What a coup for the filmmakers.