The 2008 satirical action comedy “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” features an ensemble cast that brings the story of an Israeli Special Forces soldier turned New York City hair stylist to life. Directed by Dennis Dugan and headlined by Adam Sandler, who also co-wrote the script with Robert Smigel and Judd Apatow, the film explores themes of identity and culture clash with a humorous twist. The narrative follows Zohan Dvir, played by Sandler, as he fakes his death to escape his life as a counter-terrorist agent in order to pursue his dream of becoming a hairstylist in the United States.
Supporting Sandler are John Turturro and Emmanuelle Chriqui, who play pivotal roles in this quirky comedy. Turturro’s character, The Phantom, serves as Zohan’s arch-nemesis, while Chriqui’s character, Dalia, becomes Zohan’s love interest and the owner of the salon where he finds work. Other notable cast members include Nick Swardson, Lainie Kazan, and Rob Schneider, contributing to the dynamic and culturally diverse characters that interact with Zohan. Let’s talk more about the cast of Dont Mess with the Zohan.
The film weaves together its comedic elements with action sequences, and the cast’s varied backgrounds and experiences enable a wide array of humorous scenarios that play off cultural stereotypes and misunderstandings. With its high-profile comedic contributors behind the script and a production team that includes Sandler and Jack Giarraputo, “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” delivers an eclectic blend of laughs and action, offering a distinct take on the pursuit of the American dream.
Film Overview
You Don’t Mess with the Zohan is a film that amalgamates action and comedy, released in 2008 and rated PG-13. It presents a narrative, rich with humor and dynamic sequences, set in the vibrant and diverse backdrop of New York City. The storyline revolves around Zohan Dvir, an Israeli counter-terrorism commando who fakes his death to pursue his dream of becoming a hairstylist in America.
In this film, the viewers are treated to an energetic blend of cultural quirks and the pursuit of the American dream. The protagonist’s secret life gives rise to comical situations underscored by his transition from a skilled fighter to a passionate stylist.
Noteworthy Aspects:
- Genre: Action/Comedy
- Setting: The bustling urban life of New York City
- Rating: Secures a PG-13 rating, indicating material might not be suitable for children under 13
- Trailer: Captures the film’s comedic and action-packed essence
The film’s trailer promises a rollicking adventure as Zohan’s past eventually catches up to him, leading to humorous and action-packed scenarios that capture the absurdity and heart of the plot. The film not only showcases physical comedy and stunts but also blends in the softer aspirations of Zohan’s character, delivering a movie-experience that attracts viewers who appreciate both laughter and excitement.
Main Cast
The ensemble of “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” features a variety of actors taking on vibrant characters, ranging from a former Israeli commando turned New York City hairdresser to his eccentric adversaries and colleagues.
Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler portrays the protagonist, Zohan, an Israeli commando who fakes his own death to pursue his dream of becoming a hairstylist in New York City.
John Turturro
John Turturro steps into the role of the antagonist, known as The Phantom, who is Zohan’s arch-enemy and a key figure in the comedic conflict of the film.
Emmanuelle Chriqui
As the love interest of Sandler’s character, Emmanuelle Chriqui plays Dalia, a Palestinian salon owner who befriends and eventually falls for Zohan.
Nick Swardson
In a support role, Nick Swardson acts as Michael, a friend who helps Zohan integrate into the bustling life of a New York hairdresser.
Lainie Kazan
Lainie Kazan portrays Gail, Michael’s mother, and a supportive character who assists Zohan in embracing his new identity.
Ido Mosseri
Ido Mosseri is featured as Oori, a fellow Israeli and compatriot of Zohan, providing comic relief and support throughout the film.
Supporting Cast
The movie “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” features a diverse assortment of actors in its supporting cast. Each performer brought a unique flavor to the film, which is filled with both comedy veterans and unexpected guest stars assuming a range of memorable roles. Besides the main cast of Don’t Mess with the Zohan, the supporting cast helps make the movie memorable.
Rob Schneider
Rob Schneider appears as Salim, a taxi driver with a vendetta against Zohan.
Dave Matthews
Dave Matthews takes on the role of James, a racist redneck character.
Michael Buffer
Michael Buffer is featured as Walbridge, a businessman with an unethical plan.
Charlotte Rae
Charlotte Rae portrays Mrs. Greenhouse, one of Zohan’s elderly hairstyling clients.
Sayed Badreya
Sayed Badreya plays the character of Hamdi, a Palestinian electronics store owner.
Daoud Heidami
Daoud Heidami steps into the role of Nasi, a friend of the protagonist, Zohan.
Kevin Nealon
Kevin Nealon portrays Kevin, a greedy real estate developer.
Dina Doron
Dina Doron assumes the role of Zohan’s mother.
Shelley Berman
Shelley Berman is cast as Zohan’s father.
Chris Rock
Chris Rock makes a cameo as a taxi driver.
John McEnroe
John McEnroe also appears as himself in a brief cameo.
George Takei
George Takei participates with a cameo appearance.
Bruce Vilanch
Bruce Vilanch plays himself in a small role.
John Paul DeJoria
John Paul DeJoria, the entrepreneur, is featured as himself.
Alec Mapa
Alec Mapa takes on the role of Claude, a salon employee.
Ahmed Ahmed
Ahmed Ahmed portrays Waleed, a friend to Zohan.
Ben Wise
Ben Wise plays Yosi, a coworker of Zohan at the hair salon.
Guri Weinberg
Guri Weinberg assumes the character of Aharon, who is part of Zohan’s Israeli commando unit.
Danny A. Abeckaser
Danny A. Abeckaser is cast as Ze’ev, a member of the Israeli commando unit.
Reuven Bar-Yotam
Reuven Bar-Yotam portrays Natan, another member of the Israeli commando unit.
Barry Livingston
Barry Livingston plays Gray Kleibolt, a character involved in the film’s corporate intrigue.
Rick Gifford
Rick Gifford takes on the role of Philip, an assistant to Walbridge.
Daniel Browning Smith
Daniel Browning Smith is featured as Real Estate Agent #1.
Tyler Spindel
Tyler Spindel portrays Doorman.
Shulie Cowen
Shulie Cowen appears as Debbie, a salon customer.
Maysoon Zayid
Maysoon Zayid plays Nadira, a Palestinian woman living in the USA.
Helen Siff
Helen Siff assumes the role of Mrs. Skitzer, another salon client.
Cynthia Frost
Cynthia Frost is cast as Older Lady #1, a salon client fond of Zohan’s styling techniques.
Edmund Lyndeck
Edmund Lyndeck portrays Pharmacist.
Production Crew
The production crew behind “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” was instrumental in bringing the comedy to life, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York. The film leverages the diverse talents of its crew, from direction and screenwriting to set decoration and cinematography, to tell the story of an Israeli soldier-turned-hairstylist.
Dennis Dugan
Dennis Dugan served as the director of the film, overseeing the artistic and dramatic aspects while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfillment of his vision.
Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler was not only the lead actor but also one of the screenwriters and producers. His involvement was central to the comedic tone and production of the film.
Robert Smigel
Robert Smigel, known for his comedic writing, contributed as a screenwriter, enhancing the movie’s humor and unique character dialogues.
Judd Apatow
The involvement of Judd Apatow as a screenwriter provided the film with a touch of his signature comedic style, adding depth and laughs to the screenplay.
Jack Giarraputo
Jack Giarraputo co-produced the film alongside Sandler, bringing expertise that helped shepherd the project from development to release.
Michael Barrett
As the cinematographer, Michael Barrett was responsible for capturing the visual essence of the film, creating the look that brings the beauty salon and New York scenes to life.
Ronald R. Reiss
Ronald R. Reiss worked as the set decorator, responsible for arranging the decoration and scenery of the film’s varied locations to reflect the vibrant culture of New York.
Aldric La’Auli Porter
Aldric La’Auli Porter served as the Assistant Director, playing a key role in managing the film’s set and supporting the director’s vision.
Robert Fechtman
The film’s Art Director, Robert Fechtman, was instrumental in creating the visual language for the setting that ranges from Middle Eastern landscapes to the urban beauty salon.
Elmo Weber
Elmo Weber took the helm as Sound supervisor, ensuring that the audio quality matched the high energy of the film’s aesthetic and comedic tones.
Ellen Lutter
Ellen Lutter was the Costume Designer, creating the looks that defined each character, from Zohan’s stylist outfits to the flamboyant attire of supporting roles.
Daryl Kass
Responsible for finding the right actors for the film, Daryl Kass served as the Casting director, assembling a cast that could bring the comedic script to life.
Michael Dilbeck
Music Supervisor Michael Dilbeck oversaw the film’s soundtrack, which supported its comedic beats and the cultural fusion depicted on screen.
Corrina Duran
Corrina Duran‘s expertise as the Make-Up artist ensured that every character’s appearance supported the comedic and thematic elements of the film.
Ann Pala
Ann Pala‘s skill as a Hair Stylist was critical in authentically portraying the inner workings of a beauty salon against the NYC backdrop.
Thomas Real
Special effects were coordinated by Thomas Real, who ensured the integration of effective Special Effects that contributed to the film’s humorous and exaggerated action sequences.
Richard Kite
Richard Kite played an essential role as the Video Graphics supervisor, enhancing the visual storytelling with graphic elements that complemented the film’s comedy.
