Neighbors

Release Date: May 09, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 37 min. 
Director: Nicholas Stoller
Cast: Seth Rogen, Zac Efron, Rose Byrne, Dave Franco, Ike Barinholtz, Christopher Mintz-Plasse.

A married couple learns parenthood isn't what it's cracked out to be when a fraternity moves next door in peaceful suburbia. Starring Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne,  and a douchey Zac Efron, it's survival of the young, high and relentless. Coming from Stoller and Rogen, the humor is as expected – unrestricted and immature for laugh out loud moments. But in between takes are lulls of indifference, not enough character development to justify a side. It eventually becomes a repetitious game of juvenility, not very creative or extreme as could be. However, Efron, for his part, is notably entertaining, having long shed his "High School Musical" days. His frat boy persona seems perfectly fitting when up against a 'grown up' Seth Rogen who feels like the exact opposite. Given a premise of such myriad potential, the film is less than fulfilling compared to Stoller's previous work. But consistent or not, "Neighbors" does manage to have some hilarious forays, one particularly dealing with 'junk' and plaster. If we learn anything from this suburban scuffle, it's love thy neighbor but watch your back.

Rating: 2½ stars

Bad Words

Release Date: Mar 28, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min. 
Director: Jason Bateman 
Cast: Jason Bateman, Kathryn Hahn, Allison Janney, Ben Falcone, Rachael Harris.

If you look up the word "a**hole," chances are you'd see a photo of Guy Trilby, Bateman's latest incarnation of brash cynicism. Armed with an acid tongue and zero inhibition, his directorial debut takes front and center stage...at a national spelling bee. We've seen Bateman as the nice guy, as well as the bad guy, but where he excels best is predominantly the latter. Dropping more profanities than should ever be in the presence of a child, it's his apathetic view that brings out the hilarity. Appearing as a 40-year-old competitor, the film has no actual beginning, heading straight into the first event at the outcry of parents. Subsequently, any sort of character backstory is left astray, leaving only a mild curiosity as to Trilby's personal motives. As he pummels and crushes the hearts of little children, it's hard to find sympathy in his egomaniacal conquest. But if there's anyone that can break through that cold exterior, it's Chaitanya Chopra played by Rohan Chand. Together, they develop the most unlikely of friendships, sharing a playful dynamic that establishes the film. Chand's ability to shrug off the ridicule, and even match the wits of Bateman, is more than enough to keep the rapport entertaining. While "Bad Words" may not be the boldest of comedies, it's a step in the right direction for the newbie director.

Rating: 3 stars

Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues

Release Date: Dec 18, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 59 min. 
Director: Adam McKay 
Cast: Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, Christina Applegate, Meagan Good, James Marsden, Kristen Wiig.

Nine years ago, one man changed the face of broadcasting. He read the news, he did it well – and he looked good doing it, too. His name was Ron Burgundy, the pride of San Di-a-go. Lover of scotchy scotch-scotch and a friend to Baxter, he had it all: the woman, the hair, the fame. But all legends must gradually come to an end, and regrettably, the time has come for this well-coiffed anchor. Be it, having fan expectations after a lengthy hiatus, it's hard to look past any indicative flaws. The comedy, for one, is surprisingly unsteady, choppy and incoherent even for its outrageous nature. Sure, it has its moments of nostalgic restitution – remnants of the first film that are lovingly unforgettable. But these in no way outweigh the inescapable bad – forced dialogues of humor as awkward as Brick's ability to think. The extension of characters (Marsden, Good, or Wiig) offer no further consolation, albeit cameos run a dozen in the latter half of the film. One cameo in particular, for which I'll purposely leave unnamed, should stick to their day job if only for the betterment of this world. The story, moreover, is not that different from the first, although it does call upon other stereotypes, ie. race, in the workplace. The great thing about the first "Anchorman" was its incessant staying power, getting better with each viewing and, therefore, more memorable. Maybe in time the sequel can simulate to that effect, but for now it's best to just forgive and forget.

Rating: 2 stars

The World's End

Release Date: Aug 23, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Edgar Wright 
Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Paddy Considine, Martin Freeman, Eddie Marsan.

They say old habits die hard and for a group of five friends it may just be their demise. Marking the conclusion to the "Three Flavours Cornetto" trilogy is "The World's End," a buddy comedy with an extraterrestrial twist. Reuniting Pegg and Frost alongside director Edgar Wright, it's a rousing good time for the comedically bonded trio. Pegg leads the pack as Gary King, a recovering alcoholic still living in the past. Ever longing for the elusive 'Golden Mile' – 12 pubs, 1 night – he gathers up his old gang to finish the feat. Joining his quest is a handful of British actors, many of whom starred in previous collaborations. Comparable to a high school reunion, it's fun while it lasts until disillusionment kicks in. The story itself is predominantly entertaining, mixing intoxication with 'robots' in a bizarre amalgamation. It's this offbeat humor that makes it wildly distinctive, even when the ending feels long and strangely concocted. The bromance between Pegg and Frost is incontestable as they've faced more trials and tribulations in any given situation. From zombies in "Shaun of the Dead" to cops in "Hot Fuzz," there's no shortage of satires that these guys can't handle. Though this may be the end to one enjoyable series, we can assume they'll be back, one pub or another.

Rating: 3½ stars

The Hangover Part III

Release Date: May 23, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 
Director: Todd Phillips 
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong, John Goodman, Heather Graham,  Mike Epps, Melissa McCarthy.

They've gotten inebriated in Vegas and lost in Bangkok. Shot at, drugged up, and married to a stripper. And through it all the Wolfpack has maintained (at least) half of their sanity, only to return to the beginning...and inevitable scene of the crime. In the third entry of Phillips' gratuitous trilogy, the trio is back, uniting for their last great adventure in a string of misdeeds. When Alan comes in need of an emergency intervention, it's up to the guys to escort him on a deceivingly simple road trip. But things like these are never that easy; and once again it's utter chaos and bad news for Stu. While "Part II" was disappointing and lacking any originality, "Part III" takes an unexpected detour with a darker plot line. Not so much a 'hangover' but a rescue mission, the film is relatively detached from its preinstalled formula. As consequence, the context does feel new and favorably less repetitive, but at the same time offbeat in relation to the series. Ken Jeong's Leslie Chow is front and center as the film's antagonist, who's always stirring trouble for the hapless group. In minor doses he's vexing but a comic relief, unpredictable in nature of when he'll show up. But as the central figure, he detracts from the predisposed story line, reducing the Wolfpack down to just a couple of foragers. Though there are moments where there are glimpses of past hilarity, it comes too infrequently to really leave an impression. While "Part III" brings closure to the Vegas escapades, it's not necessarily a warranted one that anyone's ever asked for. But if there's anything to look forward to, it's the side-splitting end credits. Ed Helms will never look the same.

Rating: 2½ stars

Ted

Release Date: Jun 29, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 46 min. 

Director: Seth MacFarlane 

Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane, Joel McHale, Giovanni Ribisi.

If toys could talk, they'd probably utter obscenities - for Seth MacFarlane, anyway. From the brain that brought you "Family Guy," comes a heartfelt story of love and friendship, between a manchild and his teddy bear. Mark Wahlberg stars as John Bennett, whose wish for a real-life companion is magically granted. Enter Ted: the foul-mouthed, booze-drinking stuffed toy. For any fan of MacFarlane's show, this is basically a live-action replica of the cartoon sitcom. Only, replace the dog with a bear and throw out all family values. Moreover, it's vulgar, unrestricted...and better yet, just as hilarious. And this is partly due to the peculiarity that is Mark Wahlberg. Though typically inclined towards more dramatic roles, his comedic performances are what always stand out. Case in point: "The Other Guys." His humor combined with his deadpan expression are a trademark of the actor, not to mention his recent rapport with a talking bear. Which brings us to MacFarlane, the voice behind the animal. His vocal presence on "Family Guy" is unmistakably the main essence of the show, and it continues to be so in "Ted." The CGI ingeniously captures his personality full-on, including all the cynicism that comes along with it. And there's no limit to what he can pull off in an R-rated comedy. This may be why the film takes on a darker tonality in the third act, which somewhat dampens the mood. It could have done without the masochism, but hey, that's just his style. Either way, "Ted" is one of the more creative comedies to come around in awhile, and we have Peter Griffin to thank for that.

Rating: 3½ stars

American Reunion

Release Date: Apr 06, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min. 

Director: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg 

Cast: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Seann William Scott, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eugene Levy, Tara Reid, Mena Suvari, John Cho, Jennifer Coolidge.

In 1999, one movie changed the fate of baked goods forever. Raunchy, uncensored, and crudely entertaining, "American Pie" helped pave the way for teen comedies alike; including two moderate sequels, and the rather unmentionable direct-to-dvd's. But like most things you own in high school, you tend to outgrow them, and that's exactly what happens here in "Reunion." Despite thirteens years in between the first film and now, the characters and scenarios really haven't changed much. Jim is still getting caught in compromising positions, and Stifler is still...well, Stifler. It's the nostalgia that draws you in, but ultimately lets you down, like a long-running gag that's tirelessly been depleted. With familiar antics and lewdness as before, the sequel loses any form of novelty the fourth time around. This is keeping in mind the return of the entire cast, many of whom were absent in the last two rounds. Fortunately, as it's worth mentioning, Eugene Levy as Jim's dad continues to be the comic scapegoat. His unconventional fathering methods have always been the highlight of the "Pie" series, and the same can be said for this entry. If we've learned anything from his words of wisdom, it's that everything happens naturally. And likewise, this franchise has essentially run its course.

Rating: 2 stars

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas

Release Date: Nov 04, 2011  

Runtime: 1 hr. 30 min. 

Director: Todd Strauss-Schulson

Cast: John Cho, Kal Penn, Neil Patrick Harris, Patton Oswalt, Danny Trejo, Tom Lennon.

Tis the season to get high, in the latest adventure with "Harold & Kumar." John Cho and Kal Penn reprise their roles as the stoner pair, this time reuniting after years of distance and separation. Harold is now a wealthy businessman down on Wall St. (cue the protesters), and Kumar is unemployed, unshaven and single. While not much has changed since the last roundabout—the boys still end up in their crazy antics and NPH is, well, 'straight'—the third time around doesn't feel as repetitive as the earlier disappointment that was "The Hangover: Pt II." On the contrary, "Christmas" is the most cartoonish of the bunch, tipping the scale of idiocy and obscenity to full-on mayhem. With the use of 3D technology and claymation, if feels like a constant acid trip, without the after effects. You have to give credit to the writers for their creativity, as this drugged out wonderland is remarkably full of holiday spirit, albeit in all the wrong ways. The best thing about the franchise is still NPH, of course, who willingly pokes fun of himself, as himself; a paradox of sorts. His presence alone makes up for the flaws that come with a sequel that has an easy premise to begin with, and not much going for it afterward. Will it ever surpass the novelty of going to "White Castle?" Probably not. But it sure puts a cracked spin on a holiday that's typically meant for kids. Think of it as a Christmas classic for the immoral side in you.

Rating: 3 stars

Tower Heist

Release Date: Nov 04, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min. 

Director: Brett Ratner 

Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Michael Peña, Gabourey Sidibe.

Talk about a job gone wrong. When a group of condo employees get bamboozled by their wealthy resident, the only way to cope is to get even. But like all knuckle-headed heists, it's easier said than done, and improbability becomes irrelevant in a caper-comedy made for amateurs. In his first mainstream movie since "Rush Hour 3," Ratner keeps to what he knows, bringing talent together for a comedy that should please the general masses. Led by an unusually reserved Ben Stiller, the cast is what makes "Tower Heist" so appealing, giving much deserved attention to the supporting likes of Michael Peña and Gabourey Sidibe. But at the end of the day, it's all about the Eddie Murphy show and his long-awaited comeback to the comedy spotlight. After years of spiraling downward with family-friendly gigs, Murphy returns with gusto, and validates his old knack for humor with his fast-talking, wise-cracking persona. While the first half of the film delivers the majority of the jokes from the trailer, it's no less amusing in the context of the planning that already seems ill-fated from the start. It's when the actual heist comes into play that things go astray, and open a can of unanswered questions that leave us feeling dumbfounded. Still, Ratner's films are never meant to be taken seriously and this one shouldn't either. A heist is what you ask for and a heist is what you get.

Rating: 3 stars

The Change-Up

Release Date: Aug 05, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min. 

Director: David Dobkin 

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman, Leslie Mann, Olivia Wilde, Alan Arkin.

When “Freaky Friday” goes R-rated, there’s no limits as to what can be said or done. And “The Change-Up” attests to that, giving a crude spin on a fable that is a surefire way to get the laughs. Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman star as two friends who are complete opposites, but long for the other’s ‘stress-free’ life. Thanks to a magical fountain, their wish gets granted, and it’s safe to guess what happens next. With credentials backed by the director of “Wedding Crashers” and the writers of “The Hangover,” there’s no shortage of raunchiness or ballsy humor (literally) to spare. But even as the premise of body swapping is far from original, and noticeably passé, this isn’t the reason why it doesn’t work as well as it should. Like the characters switching lifestyles, the film undergoes dual personalities, and doesn’t stay fixedly to one genre alone. On the one hand, it’s a gross-out comedy. Having no restraint and habitually cringe inducing, it’s sporadically funny when the situation permits. Ergo, the jokes can seem forced and contrived at times, purely conjecturing on what the audience likes. On the other hand, it’s a sort-of drama. The characters face issues that make them question their lives, thus eventually leading to the conventional self-discovery and wish fulfillment. Reynolds and Bateman play their part—or rather counterpart—well, and it’s the role swap that makes it enjoyable for the most part. Bateman is able to leave behind his ‘nice-guy’ persona to mouth off expletives instead. But the profanity-blazon dialogue is more or less a means to get by, and doesn’t amend the unbalanced storyline that comes with it. While “The Change-Up” is not one of the better comedies of the summer, it may be inclined to subjectivity. I, for one, prefer Bateman’s similar take in “Horrible Bosses.”

Rating: 2½ stars

Horrible Bosses

Release Date: Jul 08, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 

Director: Seth Gordon 

Cast: Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day, Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, Colin Farrell. 

If you’ve ever dealt with an insufferable boss, then you are not alone. In the vein of “Office Space,” Seth Gordon forays into the lives of three disgruntled workers who are fed up with their workplace. Only, instead of unruly copiers and money laundering, it’s their bosses who become targets of misfortune. Filled with nefarious humor and a terrific cast, "Horrible Bosses" does everything that "Bad Teacher" didn’t do, and then some. Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day play the reckless trio of friends, each set out to murder one another’s superior. Though the three share a well-matched camaraderie, it’s Day who is a standout with his high-pitched voice and squeamish behavior. Opposite him is Jennifer Aniston, who steps away from her comfort zone long enough to play a sex-crazed fiend with no moral boundaries. The unexpectedness of such a role is what makes her relation with Day uncomfortable, and that much more hilarious. Colin Farrell as Sudeikis’ boss is equally unpredictable, as he has no qualms when it comes to firing certain people. Which leaves us with Kevin Spacey, who all but revels in making Bateman’s life miserable. As the three prepare to eliminate these nuisances, they receive help from ‘murder consultant’ Jamie Foxx, aka MF Jones. Of course things don’t go as naturally planned and this is where the story takes on a darker tone. As a result, the jokes wane off towards the end which feels disconnected from scenes prior. But a genuine cast of comical individuals is all it takes to make this one of the best comedies so far this year.

Rating: 3½ stars

Bad Teacher

Release Date: Jun 24, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min.

Director: Jake Kasdan 

Cast: Cameron Diaz, Justin Timberlake, Jason Segel, Lucy Punch, John Michael Higgins.  

In addition to action-packed movies each summer, sleeper comedies are a favorite to watch for, especially those that can push the boundaries and broach the unexpected. Like what “Bad Santa” did to holiday pastimes, “Bad Teacher” attempts to do with the educational system, placing Cameron Diaz in the role of an irreverent instructor who sidelines as a gold-digger. But a foul-mouth and dirty jokes can only go so far in a comedy that still comes short of humor. The problem lies within the likability of the cast. Though not new to the genre, Diaz never reaches beyond what her role necessitates, and her snarky remarks come off as a person having a bad day rather than a personality trait. Similarly, her alleged opponent, played by Lucy Punch, fairs no better and somehow manages to be more obnoxious than she really should be. To cause even more friction between the two is Justin Timberlake, who plays a substitute teacher with a wealthy inheritance. Despite his romantic past with Diaz, the chemistry is surprisingly non-existent and leads to awkward moments that are better left off screen. Thankfully, Jason Segel is there to save the day, as the modest gym teacher and source for amusement. Without him, the comedy could have done far worse, and simply passing seems like the better option.

Rating: 1½ stars

 

The Hangover: Part II

Release Date: May 26, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min. 

Director: Todd Phillips 

Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong.

Apparently, what happens in Vegas doesn’t stay in Vegas, as the boys are back in “The Hangover: Part II.” Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis—aka ‘The Wolfpack’—are now in Bangkok in celebration of Stu’s (Helms) impending wedding to his new fiancée. Following the escapades of their previously ill-fated bachelor party, Stu is reasonably opposed to reliving that experience for a second time. But as the aforementioned title rightfully implies, things go awry and pandemonium ensues…again. Director Todd Phillips returns behind the lens and script to duplicate the success of his highest-grossing, R-rated comedy of all time. By sticking to the same formula, he manages to achieve this feat with little to no hitch, offering up another surefire comedy. But in doing so, we get a thin replica full of flaws, instead of a legitimate sequel worth viewing. While the antics are crazier than ever, the familiarity of sequences hinders any chance of progression or maturity that the characters could have had since the first outing. It’s hard to empathize with Galifianakis’ character, Alan, when he seems to have learned absolutely nothing from his previous screw-ups. Justin Bartha, on the other hand, is cast aside once more, which is a shame because he could have added something new to the mix. Apart from location changes and animal substitutions, “Part II” results in an exact carbon copy of the first, only with less originality and surprise. Though “Part III” may not be any different, the ‘Wolfpack’ does still have one eligible bachelor left to initiate. And that in itself could be worth seeing. 

Rating: 2½ stars

Bridesmaids

Release Date: May 13, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min. 

Director: Paul Feig 

Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey.

Take five, radically different women, add ballsy humor, and you get “Bridesmaids”—the female answer to all male-driven comedies in recent years. SNL alum Kristin Wiig is a comedic force to be reckoned with, playing Annie, the reluctant maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding. Unlucky in love and bitter at life, she attempts to complete the coveted task at hand—if, she doesn’t lose her sanity first. Always one to steal the spotlight in supporting roles, Wiig finally receives the break she deserves, as she ascends from television fame to movie stardom. A master at improv and slapstick humor, her defining moment is liken to Steve Carell in “The 40-Year-Old-Virgin.” Rounding out the rest of the bridal party is a talented group of actresses that go against the grain of stereotypical chick flicks. Melissa McCarthy, especially, proves that you don’t have to be a pretty face to get the attention. Rated R and unfeigned, “Bridesmaids” takes the humorous route to what goes down before the pivotal aisle walk. But unlike the similarly conceived “Hangover,” the film presents a solid character study that feels pragmatic, despite the chaos and tirades. Even as the tables turn on the protagonist, you can’t help but appreciate the fact that she’s the bad guy, and that’s a good thing. Though the story starts to feel cumbersome halfway through, the ending doles out enough sentiments to counter the more cringe-inducing moments. By the starring power of Wiig and her bridal posse, the raised bar now seems to be in full effect. The guys in Bangkok will have some catching up to do.

Rating: 4 stars

Paul

Release Date: Mar 18, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.

Director: Greg Mottola 

Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Seth Rogen, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig.

 

From the entertaining minds of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, comes a comedy that boldly goes where no human probing as gone before. After escaping from Area 51, Paul—the alien fugitive—finds himself on the run with two comic book nerds traveling in a RV. Together they escape on a wild chase brought on by overzealous Christians, men in suits and the mysterious ‘Big Guy.’ Despite the heavy hand of pro-evolution at work, the film dabbles little in controversy and more in shameless humor. While it isn’t as uproariously funny as “Shaun of the Dead,” “Paul” does manage to keep the gags running consistently thanks to its cast of misfits and star cameos. Kristin Wiig is a standout with her prude-turned-nympho alteration, and Seth Rogen is ever delightful as the roguish alien. As amusing as it is oddly heartfelt, this sci-fi comedy is sure to please both geeks and slackers alike. Just think: E.T. with attitude.

Rating: 3½ stars

Due Date

Release Date: Nov 05, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.

Director: Todd Phillips

Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Zach Galifianakis, Jamie Foxx, Michelle Monaghan, RZA.

Director Todd Phillips returns to his ‘road trip’ roots in his latest buddy comedy, “Due Date.” Where anger management gets left at the door and it’s every man for himself. After running into trouble and landing on the no-fly list, Robert Downey Jr. must depart on a cross-country quest to make it home in time for his wife’s delivery of their first child. The only problem lies within his unwelcomed travel companion: Zack Galifianakis. Together they embark on a misguided journey that generates the laughter, but in intervals that come and go. Like many comedies before it, the oddball pairing is what strongly drives the film and makes it worthwhile. Perhaps even the best moments come during the silent interactions of awkwardness that speak louder than words. It’s the downplay of outlandishness that takes away from the whole experience, therefore limiting the memorable aspects of the film. Most of the jokes are already seen in the trailer and clips, with a 'been there, done that' feel. However, it does manage to redeem itself in the end with some surprise cameos. While “Due Date” is no equal match for “The Hangover,” it’s still a worthy follow-up that’ll provide the entertainment like any decent comedy should. If not, there’s always the “Hangover” sequel to look forward to next summer.

Rating: 2½ stars

Easy A

Release Date: Sep 17, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 33 min. 

Director: Will Gluck 

Cast: Emma Stone, Penn Badgley, Amanda Bynes, Dan Byrd, Thomas Haden Church, Patricia Clarkson, Stanley Tucci, Cam Gigandet, Lisa Kudrow, Malcolm McDowell.

 

Nothing travels faster than gossip, as demonstrated in this high school comedy about a straight-laced girl being pegged by ‘The Scarlett Letter.’ Emma Stone plays the said character with as much charisma and appeal as any accomplished actor. Her comedic-timing and delivery of lines are flawless and elevate a film that is, in any other sense, average. While “Easy A” is backed by a supporting cast of big names, it doesn’t quite manage to be as witty or entertaining as “Mean Girls,” from which it can draw similar comparisons. The jokes come steadily, thanks in part to the parenting skills of Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson, but not as frequently as one would hope. Yet, for a teen comedy surrounded by the current generation of excessive profanity and sex appeal, it comes off as remarkably uplifting and gets an “A” for effort. The film pays tribute to the 80’s films by John Hughes, giving nods to both “The Breakfast Club” and “Sixteen Candles,” amongst many others. It’s good to know that some classics never get old.

Rating: 3½ stars

Get Him to the Greek

 Release Date: Jun 04, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 

Director: Nicholas Stoller 

Cast: Jonah Hill, Russell Brand, Rose Byrne, Sean Combs, Elisabeth Moss.

When we first met Aldous Snow, he was an unhinged rocker seducing a tv actress in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.” Two years later, he’s still unhinged but in a more drug-induced, out-of-control sort of way. “Get Him to the Greek” attempts to delve deeper into the life of the misunderstood rock star, but ultimately finds itself lost between a comedy and a chance for self-discovery. While the premise works in terms of outrageous scenarios and dialogue, the occasional seriousness offsets the tone in an odd way. Still, one person makes this film one of the funniest of the year and that’s Diddy. The writers seemed to have him in mind when writing the character because he ended up with all of the best lines of the script. Russell Brand is even cruder than ever and eases perfectly back into the role that catapulted him in the first place. The laughs come and go but the rubbing of the furry wall will always be priceless. Overall, a fun-filled time at the Greek. 

Rating: 3½ stars

Hot Tub Time Machine

Release Date: Mar 26, 2010 

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 

Director: Steve Pink 

Cast: John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, Clark Duke, Crispin Glover. 

Vying to ride the success of “The Hangover” comes another comedy about four adult guys just trying to have some fun. The title itself should be reason enough to watch what could be the most ridiculous concept ever, but the film succeeds only halfway. While raunchiness and madness ensues as quickly as the hot tub warps speed, they don’t quite reach the level of hilarity that lasts. By the time the credits roll, the jokes are forgettable, other than the ones present in the trailer. Still, the high points come with every scene Rob Corddry and Craig Robinson are in. All of their smaller, sidekick roles in the past have finally paid off to give them the bigger spotlight they deserve. Even the coveted cameo of Chevy Chase does little to take away their stride, his role almost appearing meaningless. Memorable or not, this is a mindless comedy that should be seen with low expectations in order to have a good time. 

Rating: 2½ stars

Extract

Release Date: Sep 04, 2009 

Runtime: 1 hr. 30 min. 

Director: Mike Judge 

Cast: Jason Bateman, Mila Kunis, Kristen Wiig, Ben Affleck, J Simmons.

This one is a toss-up. It's not the greatest comedy ever but it's not terrible either. Of course when you compare it to Mike Judge's previous work "Office Space," then things can get a little dull. While the film delivers laughs every now and then, the trailer is a bit misleading in the plot. All the characters seem convoluted for no real reason, other than making mistakes and hoping for the best. J.K. Simmons and Ben Affleck make the film enjoyable, but I really couldn't care for David Koechner who seemed like a second-rate Gary Cole. In the end, the story seemed clumsy and partially unresolved. I was waiting for the stapler guy to come out and burn down the factory, but instead got an awkward funeral. Next time, Judge, next time. 

Rating: 2½ stars