The very first frame of Dinner for Schmucks shows something wildly odd and curious that you’ve probably never seen on screen before, and something you’ll probably never see again: It’s mouse taxidermy, showing the little critters’ bodies being stuffed and dressed and accessorized and coifed and posed in elaborate dioramas. How can you resist a film that starts in such a whimsical way?

Even though this is an American version of the classic French comedy The Dinner Game, it’s still provocative and original fun, with Steve Carell in a Jerry Lewis-type role like you’ve never seen him before, but have always wanted to—he is the perfect nerd du jour. He plays brilliantly alongside Paul Rudd’s neurotic straight man, and together they keep you laughing long and loud.

Many people are having a hard time with the premise of the film, which involves a group of successful businessmen entertaining themselves by inviting the goofiest peoeple they can find to a formal dinner. While the “schmucks” believe they are being celebrated, the businessmen are rolling in smugness and derision. Sure it’s cruel, but the goofs are so over-the-top and the businessmen so stereotypical that sincere and poignant humiliation is completely impossible. The characters are obviously there for our amusement, not our compassion. Besides, the point is clearly driven home that the real “schmucks” are wearing business suits.

My only problem with the film is the title. While “schmuck” is indeed a funny word, in my house it means “penis” and not in an endearing or good way. It’s more along the line of “d__k.” It’s weird to hear it on TV and see it on billboards and bus banners. I asked the actors themselves what they thought about the title, and the general consensus was that people don’t use it that way any more. That was the general consensus among the actors who don’t know Yiddish terminology. Those who do looked sheepish.

Rated PG-13

—Lisa Johnson Mandell