If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then parody can't rank too far behind. In the case of Being Ron Jeremy, it's doubtful whether Charlie Kaufman and Spike Jonze are bursting at the seams over this bare-breasted homage to Being John Malkovich, but director Brian Berke can certainly pat himself on the back for transcending the boundaries of mediocrity.

Berke also co-wrote and stars in the shot-on-video featurette as a struggling stand-up comic who works in a smut store where he discovers a peep show portal into the very being of Le Hedgehog. Driven by his unrequited love for the store's bitchy salesgirl, the would-be comic uses his discovery to turn porn's most famous stud into both a living, breathing amusement ride and a pathetic premature ejaculator. So begins a running joke that, combined with a particular plot device that relies on flatulence, gives Meet the Fokkers a run for its money on the low road.

From this point forward the plot is somewhat predictable - at least if you've seen Malkovich - but the performances are all keepers, especially Andy Dick's turn as Jeremy's sleazy friend and "acting coach." Their debate over double anal and latent homosexuality probes deeply into the, uh, male psyche, and is alone worth the price of admission. Best of all, however, is Ron's subjugation of his usual schtick for the sake of a moving dramatic performance that will touch your heart.

Well, not really, but it's certainly the best work he's done without showing his cock that this reviewer has seen in years.