Tag: Comedy

THE SITTER (2011)

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Directed By: David Gordon Green 
Written By: Brain Gatewood & Alessandro Tanaka 
Cinematography By: Tim Orr 
Editor: Craig Alpert

Cast: Jonah Hill, Ari Graynor, J.B. Smoove, Sam Rockwell, Method Man, Bruce Altman, Erin Daniels, Max Records, Samira Wiley

A comedy about a college student on suspension who is coaxed into babysitting the kids next door, though he is fully unprepared for the wild night ahead of him. 

This film is a Rated R ADVENTURES IN BABYSITTING remake almost. Though this is definitely dirtier and less heartwarming but still just as fun. 

The film is a major showcase for Jonah Hill. This is one of those films that your enjoyment depends upon. It’s comedic center and performance and luckily here you have a solid comedic lead with Jonah. The only problem is that he hasn’t defined his type yet. It works out in him giving more of an acting performance than a comedian’s performance where it just would feel like an extension of the comedian’s comic personality. 

He is still a bit shaky and unsteady but definitely finding his way and feeling himself. There is one thing i truly admire about Jonah hill is that with each project he takes on, he is hands-on throughout the production as far as writing and creativity. 

This was his last film before he lost a massive amount of weight. To me so far in his career, Jonah Hill has barely made a misstep. He even managed to make a dramatic turn in MONEYBALL. I didn’t think much of going in and ended up surprisingly loved it. Not only does he hit it out of the ballpark but he got an Oscar nomination. 
 
If you don’t like films that rely on stereotypes to a degree and children being exposed to bad language and inappropriate situations But also using it. This is not the film for you. Which might be why the film bombed. Its advertisement is full of kids. Which you would think would make it a movie that you could bring your kids to. Unfortunately, you can’t.

Which really makes you question is the film only funny because it’s pushing the limit and squeezing laughs out of it or is it just funny. In other words, is it success only shock value. 
The film barely got a good advertisement like they were just throwing it out, Made it just seem like it is only about a Male babysitter isn’t that funny. It has Jonah Hill looking shocked on a flyer for a babysitter asking “Would you trust this guy with your kids” 

I enjoyed the film more then I expected to because despite all of it’s nastiness, shocks, and familiarity. It also managed to have sensitivity and heart without selling out it’s cynicism. It’s a shame it bombed as it seems to be juvenile an off-kilter crowd pleaser. 
 
J.B. Smoove Plays his usual type of role but it works for the film and is hilarious and adds to his menacing character to a point considering the drug dealers He and Sam Rockwell play in the film are more comedic then threatening which makes them that much scarier as they are continually off-kilter. Sam Rockwell’s drug dealer and his harem of well-muscled men are inspired and definitely off-putting. As always Rockwell is an engaging performer who is good dramatically but kills in comedic roles. 

The film tries to play it both ways Between Cynical and heartwarming. Towards the end even though the film has mostly been playing by its own rules, it turns a bit sappy out of nowhere when all of a sudden the main character played by Jonah hill gaining Noble wisdom having all the answers and finally figuring out responsibility and when he should be taught a lesson and deal with his mistakes. 

He is let off and saved so that only for the grace of the script he would never truly learn his lesson as he gets away with almost everything without punishment. It’s a movie that is not meant to be a lesson know. I’m just saying. This film is a good rental. I only wish the running time was long to keep the film going. Yet it ends before it wears out it’s welcome.  


GRADE: B-

THE MASK (1994)

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Directed By: Chuck Russell 
Written By: Mike Werb 
Based on a Story by: Michael Fallon & Mark Verheiden 
Cinematography By: John R. Leonetti 
Editor: Arthur Coburn 

Cast: Jim Carrey, Cameron Diaz, Peter Greene, Amy Yasbeck, Richard Jeni, Joely Fisher, Peter Riegert 

Stanley Ipkiss is a bank clerk that is an incredibly nice man. Unfortunately, he is too nice for his own good and is a pushover when it comes to confrontations. After one of the worst days of his life, he finds a mask that depicts Loki, the Norse night god of mischief. Now, when he puts it on, he becomes his inner, self: a cartoony romantic wild man. However, a small time crime boss, Dorian Tyrel, comes across this character dubbed “The Mask” by the media. After Ipkiss’s alter ego indirectly kills his friend in crime, Tyrel now wants this green-faced goon destroyed.I remember going to see this film in movie theaters. 

Before this film I was never a big fan of Jim Carrey Really but this film made me a huge fan of his. Yet this film won me over and made me more aware of his comedic talents. 

It set’s itself up early as it revolves around a fantasy world and not a real city. So it stays true to it’s graphic novel roots a little. Though where as the graphic novel is more dark and cynical this film is fun and like a live action cartoon with the mask character. There are deaths in the film that seem to be more about cartoons then violence. That is the beauty of the film where it is more of a kid’s film at heart for adults that kids will naturally want to watch and enjoy. 

 Jim Carrey at least plays a double-sided character instead of him just riffing with his more physical comedy. He plays the shy nice Staley Ipkiss with as fuch energy and fervor as he pays the mask. Who seems to be like all the looney toons characters all rolled up into one. That is the element that attracted him to the role in the first place. He adds his own touches like the banana yellow suit he wears is based on the one his mother made when he first started to perform stand-up. He laso says the way he played the character is based on his father. 
 

The film is the acting debut of Cameron Diaz (Who was a last-minute replacement for Anna Nicole Smith) and she is the ultimate Femme Fatale as she has never looked as good as she looks here and never been as memorable. Once she comes onto the screen she has one of the most memorable entrances ever. 

There is a backward plot that involves the mask going against the mob and stealing the mobster’s girlfriend and just when they set up a romantic rival for Cameron Diaz they dump her just as soon so that our hero can get the girl who led him astray in the first place only in the movies kids. 

I wish This is a fun film that utilizes it’s special effects and they look good and natural not fake and too far out. The film is still relevant as it has aged well and is still fun to watch. It’s not quite the risky film that would be made today or even taken a chance of today I am glad it was made. 

It’s just the type of off-kilter movie that initially you would think would be more of a cult type project but with the addition of Jim Carrey A mainstream star it became a worldwide hit. Followed by an inferior sequel almost a decade later that was even more lighthearted then this film was.  

This film has a dark heart that is never given a chance to fully flow, it is more dressed up to make it more mainstream. It’s still a good film. A film where you wish you could have the masks and the power of it. Realizing that half the time how he overreacts to things and contorts is how you wish you could express yourself in similar situations. 

Chuck Russell directed this film and for all the verve and inventiveness he brings to this film. He didn’t bring any to his projects after this film. He had one of note before this that I really enjoyed THE BLOB and NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET PART 3: DREAM WARRIORS 

GRADE: B

OFFSIDE (2006)

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Directed & Edited By: Jafar Panahi
Written By: Jafar Panahi & Shadmehr Restin
Cinematography By: Yuval Berazani & Korosh Bozorgpour

Cast: Sima Mobarak-Shahi, Shayesteh Ireni, Ayda Sadeqi, Golanz Parmani, Mahnaz Zabini

 “Offside” is about a group of Iranian girls who attempts to enter Tehran’s Azadi Stadium dressed as boys in order to watch a big football match but some get caught and arrested. After the establishment of the Islamic Republic in Iran, women are not allowed to enter the stadiums. 

The women here are not very convincing dressed up as men, Some could pass. Here we follow a first-timer tries and is caught and detained with other women. We get to see their passion for the sport. The camaraderie that develops between them. The hypocrisy involved in this law prohibiting women. Which even some of the men attending the game see as stupid or don’t really care.

It’s rare the movie that can involve social commentary and still be a light-hearted comedy, But this movie succeeds and scores.

This film involves characters you grow to love and are astonished at their rebellious nature. For what can be a trivial pastime but they are willing to lay it all on the line for football or what we in America would call soccer. The beauty of this film is that even though it’s a dramedy. It feels more like a documentary due to the realness. The camera work and the fact that it was filmed during an actual world cup qualifying match.

There is nothing outrageous it is more the comedy that comes from real-life situations. I like the fact that the film doesn’t make anyone out to be evil or a villain. Even the guards who are there to reinforce the rules are three-dimensional characters. Not one-dimensional zealots, that you see a lot of times in a lot of other movies.

This is definitely a must-see. It’s not propaganda or a political film drowned in messages and symbolism. In fact if not for the politics involved this could be a nice breezy comedy. I mean it is rated PG after all.

An Addition to the home library.

GRADE: A

DON’T TELL MOM THE BABYSITTER’S DEAD (1991)

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Directed By: Stephen Herek
Written By: Neil Landau & Tara Ison
Cinematography By: Tim Sushrstedt
Editor: Larry Bock

Cast: Christina Applegate, Keith Coogan, Joanna Cassidy, Jayne Brook, John Getz, Josh Charles, Kimmy Robertson, Danielle Harris, David Duchovny, Concetta Tomei, Christopher Pettiet, Sarah Buxton, Michael Kopelow 

Single mother goes away for the summer. The kids are first delighted but then find that Mom has hired the sitter from hell to stay with them. When the sitter dies of a sudden coronary they deposit the body at a mortuary only to discover all their summer expense money was in her purse. The kids must find a way to survive the summer without mom or her money. This means actual work! 

The title gets to the point and pretty much summarizes the plot of the movie right away. Usually, movies Like this have a deadly fate. Look at STOP OR MY MOTHER WILL SHOOT! Which is more infamous than anything.

This is actually pretty good and memorable. Even watching it today though some of it is dated and some of the humor random. It still holds up as even though it has some harsh material mostly in the form of language and certain situations. This is more a family romp. The material makes it seem like it’s own Characters who are likable who seem tough and troubled but have good hearts. As it has an edge but plays it clean.

I will admit I have a soft spot for this film. I even saw it in theaters upon the initial release. It still is instantly rewatchable.

This was Christina Applegate’s big Hollywood starring role. She has guest-starred in other shows and had an indie film that was buried on video before this, by this was a big time and even though a modest hit. That seems to love on in airings. She never really got a chance at a big screen follow up the Leading role.

Here she plays against her usual sexy or sex pot type of roles she was getting at the time. This was more of a teenager forced to grow up to get out of a situation but still being a kid at heart. So a kind of comedic coming of age role that wasn’t too deep. This role allowed her to show range and talent. Which might be why she is discharged a consummate comedic actress now. As she grew up play around comedic productions and actors. Even though she was not the first choice for the role. As it was written for Winona Ryder and once she turned it down Justine Bateman was to take on the role but dropped out.

As we basically watch her as a teen prepare for the adult world. While being immersed in it and while making mistakes learning to form them and getting by and actually improving and helping the company and her co-workers. Which has an effect on all those around. Her and proving that karma does exist.

The film even manages to fit in a cute teenage romantic subplot that of course runs parallel to the main plot and ends up having mishaps, misunderstandings and accidents.

The film isn’t as cynical and dark as the title might suggest or that the premise might seem.

Part of what works is that even the supporting characters are fun and come off as believable and funny and get their own space and time to shine.

This was one of the last really noteworthy roles for actor Keith Coogan. Here he plays the second oldest Kenny a stoner metalhead who manages the household while his sister is away and in staying home also learns a skill that helps him to mature. After all his mistakes at home that cause only more trouble and mishaps. He nearly steals the movie though doesn’t have as much screen time. Though this is definitely a highlight of His work and one of his bigger roles. Definitely one most will remember him for other then ADVENTURES IN BABYSITTING.

Production nearly stopped towards the end of shooting due to Christopher Pettiet’s drug addiction, which was starting to get out of control. The producers cut a few of his scenes to keep the film on schedule. Which would explain why he is barely in the movie.

This could have easily been a one-joke movie but it actually has some substance to go along with the comedy it presents. It actually feels well rounded which is rare for a teen comedy. Especially at the time. –If the pace had been a bit quicker this could have been quite a slapstick comedy.

John Landis was originally approached to direct as he was the producer’s first choice. the movie but he turned it down. As did John Hughes who only directed his own scripts and was eager to step away from teen films. Also Richard Donner, Joe Dante rand Joel Schumacher turned it down. This was Director Stephen Herek’s third big-screen film production. He shines here. Which would be his style with most of his films. Which really were more family-centered films. With those other directors, the film would be more an approach of their styles which might be bigger than the actors of the film but might have allowed To be taken more seriously as a comedy. Rather than written off as a dark teen film. Even as it packs plenty of nostalgia no matter what age

GRADE: B-

JAY AND SILENT BOB REBOOT (2020)

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Written, Edited  & Directed By: Kevin Smith
Cinematography: Yaron Levy 

Cast: Jason Mewes, Kevin Smith, Fred Armisen, Jason Lee, Ben Affleck, Chris Jericho, Shannon Elizabeth, Rosario Dawson, Harley Quinn Smith, Joey Lauren Adams, Diedrich Bader, Craig Robinson, Justin Long, Donell Rawlings, Aparna Brielle, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Johnny Bananas, Joe Manganiallo, Karruche Tran, Melissa Benoit, Jason Biggs, Adam Brody, Val Kilmer, Kate Micucci, James Van Der Beek, Redman, Joe Reitman, Alice Wan, Brian O’Halloran, Tommy Chong, Keith Coogan, Molly Shannon, Dan Folger, Ralph Garman, Chris Hemsworth, Frankie Shaw, Treshelle Edmond 

Jay and Silent Bob inadvertently sign away their names and rights to the new Bluntman and Chronic movie. Now they head to Hollywood to stop the film from being made. Along the way Jay discovers that he is a father.

The film is a road-trip comedy. Where the story is there to explain and get the audience to the journey. Yet the reasons are more ridiculous.

It’s also a movie where half the fun of it is sporting the cameos and so-called guest stars

This is a film that is hard for me to review. Because as much of a fan as I am of Kevin Smith and his movies. At this point, he truly doesn’t care about impressing anyone outside of his fan base really or necessarily making more conventional films. At this point, he has a large following film-wise of usually the same age group most of his films are aimed at. Through podcasts, comic books as well as directing television shows. So that when he makes films it is for a niche audience of loyal fans and followers. So that it shows he is thankful and appreciated their loyalty. This is why for me it usually feels like a Joy to watch any new film he has ou

As usual, one has interest though more and more it seems like a chore. 

As with many different aging comedians like Adam Sandler and to a degree Eddie Murphy. He is willing to try new things once in a while but also seems like he is going after a young audience or the same audience he has always had only the next generation of them. By making his movies more for teens and kids. As they get juvenile and raunchy humor with big words but also as they get older they will find themselves loyal and beholden to him

As they grew up with his films. Planned or not. It also helps that he comes off always like a decent regular guy. Who just happened to get his dream job.

He also has always seemed to have a self-deprecating sense of humor and as he gets older he sharpens and aims for himself more and more. 

So that if you are a fan of his films and humor. You should enjoy this film. If not it might be a little harder for you to enjoy. As the fun of this movie is having previous knowledge of the characters and situations. Catching up with a lot of them over the years.

The film feels like a gift to his audience. As it brings back his most popular characters again for their own movie. A kind of sequel to JAY & SILENT BOB STRIKE BACK. Only as it seems to be directed to serve a younger teen audience. As well as hand it off to the next generation of characters and but like his previous film this feels like a present to pass on to his daughter. Who stars in this film And is a fine presence and likable. As she has appeared in many of his films previously and starred in YOGA HOSERS. Which thankfully this film is much better then. 

The film and its humor is still profane. Yet it still satirizes the characters as well as some of the actors participating in personal triumphs and give a reunion of sorts for various view askew character to appear throughout. As it shows just an exuberance of joy and goodwill which is how he also seems to snag some big names in self-deprecating cameos. 

The film ends up being crude yet fun it stays entertaining even if it feels a bit long and excessive. Also, he seems sometimes to be too hard on himself when being self-deprecating. 

The film stays purely comedic throughout in a more silly slapstick way and offers the young female characters not only a point of view but a chance to shine. Where the film isn’t all about sex nor focused on them more as sexual objects. He actually makes the characters and more part of the action. Which shows some growth for him. Not that he was a huge misogynist before or anything but wrote what he knew and characters more like himself. 

Your knowledge of his previous films will affect your enjoyment of this one. If you are a fan this will be a slam dunk, but if you are a critic of his previous work this will not be the one to convince you otherwise. 

Grade: C

BABY DRIVER (2017)

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Written & Directed By: Edgar Wright 
Cinematography By: Bill Pope 
Editor: Jonathan Amos & Paul Machliss 

Cast: Ansel Egort, Lilly James, Jamie Foxx, Kevin Spacey, Jon Hamm, Eiza Gonzalez, Jon Bernthal, Sky Ferreira, Paul Williams, Flea, CJ Jones


After being coerced into working for a crime boss, a young getaway driver finds himself taking part in a heist doomed to fail.

I Can’t say enough good things about this movie. Apparently, I drank it’s kool-aid and found it quite refreshing.

The film surprises, Every time Edgar Wright makes a movie it feels like a gift. Usually, it seems as it takes too long to get to us. Though it is always worth it. It gives us a glimpse of his creative imagination and skill. Even with high hopes always seem to underestimate him. The movie is quite a ride. Like a roller coaster that you never want to leave. Perfect for the summer or anytime. The movie has style for days and most of all just plain fun and never in a stupid way.

The film keeps up energy that is Infectious for the audiences. It’s a film that has a fun personality and doesn’t have to do too much to charm.

The film maintains an excitement throughout which the audience feeds off of and feels a similar excitement throughout. Which are a difficult thing to do these days as in blockbusters and films things seem so routine and planned out. That the filmmakers seem to be all over the place. Here it feels like the filmmakers and cast are constantly energized by one another and even if not necessarily personal the film feels like there was a lot of passion going into it.  

It also is nice to see the film allows for homages and references to other films and pop culture. That won’t date the film necessarily but gives it more of a modern in the moment flavor.

Like how he obscures the violence while you feel the impact. Through clever framing and blocking. There are three-way chase sequences. Where the criminals are running from the cops then not trusting one another start running away from one another and trying to catch each other realizing the other has what they need

The film includes bad guys choosing to be humane, Good guys choosing to be bad. Action sequences that don’t rely so much on fighting hand to hand combat or toughness but agility and having peace of mind to figure your way out.

The film includes a love story that keeps it’s purity because the romance is never really consummated. So that it keeps an innocence but feels kind of melodramatic like a teen film from the 1950s with dreams of hitting the open road together. Maybe as the romance is so simple, sweet, and easy. Really built off of. Itching but attraction and politeness. That it feels like first love and making a connection. Something that at first is never complicated or at least it doesn’t seem that way. Though through the actions of the films proves that each of them truly rides or die for one another.

Like a comic book come to life. It knows what type of film it is and as long as you keep that in mind you should enjoy it. As it incorporates many little left turns of genre specifics into it’s crime and love story. It feels like a candy-sweet and filled with sugar that energizes you. As well as being that colorful. It Manages to keep an innocence and wonder, That keeps you caring.

The film manages to be thrilling and menacing in the right moments. So that you are on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen. So much effortless style that you can feel it but don’t realize how remarkable it is until later on thinking back about it and, you will trust me.

The movie lacks a certain depth and sustenance, but that is truly one of it’s few weaknesses overall. Which aren’t necessarily needed in this equation.

The lead played by Ansel Egort is kind of bland, but he needs to be as usually the main characters in these types of films are the strong silent type where you can easily read whatever you want into them. Here we are given more of his backstory, but the role seems to more take advantage of Ansel Egort physically as he is skinny and limber with a bay face. That is easy to mold him into whatever you need out of a leading man.

One of the reasons for the enjoyment of the film is the supporting characters who liven up the film and add flavor where the lead does not and really can’t as his character is pretty plain and simple. He is mostly driven towards newfound goals. Though there is a reason why Jon Hamm, Kevin Spacey, and Jamie Foxx are in the movie. Whereas at first they just seem to be there to be named on the posters and big names who do nothing, but as the film goes along we see why they are in the film and are more than the unassuming roles we bought at first. They each get to reveal more about them than we originally thought. Not necessarily surprises but they liven up the film. To be more than just cops and robbers.

The big-name supporting stars are a revelation as at first they seem just there to be part of the background then they come out and show what they are truly all about. I mean this is a film where you have two Best Actor Oscar winners playing supporting roles. So there must be something about the script and film that got them to sign on in a diminished capacity (Yes I know they both were in the disappointing HORRIBLE BOSSES too. though I will think of that as more paycheck roles. Not so much here)

Jamie Foxx is memorable as an over the edge criminal who is antagonistic as he trusts no one. It seems with each crew baby works with there is one. Who more or less helps with the exposition.

Jon Hamm, seems a simple happy go, lucky thug, who comes out late in the film letting his inner psychopath out in search of revenge and retribution. He also has a certain bad boy handsome here. That makes him more a dangerous lady killer than just the usual leading man

Eiza Gonzalez is more the sexy wildfire who is both sexy and deadly but carries a kind of a mystery to her and proves to be more than what she looks like or what you would expect. though not featured too much she is a. Ice price of eye candy to go with the visuals.

Even Kevin Spacey is off the charts as the mastermind. Here he is more. Noteworthy for his middle-class menace where he can compliment and threaten in one sentence but you know he is never lying. We are used to him being the smartest person in the room and acting like he is above everyone else, but the last act moment truly shines his character in a different light. His upper-crust was doesn’t seem out of place. Nor does it distract or obstruct the flow of his character or the movie. If anything it helps feed it.

What is fun is that the villains or at least the threats to our young protagonist keep changing hands. As to who he has to be afraid of or see as a major threat and maybe overcome.

Now know this film is candy-colored and visceral with it’s excitement and shots. In the texture of course it never becomes as serious or as accomplished as films like DRIVE, THE DRIVER, and BULLIT. Though it does align itself as more of a lighter-toned chase film. It does have it’s own personality and identity. Though you would also check out those films to see where Edgar Wright might have gotten his inspiration. He even gives DRIVER director Walter Hill a cameo in the film. (Among other blink and you miss them cameos from Rappers Big Boi and Killer Mike)

Edgar Wright timed the character’s movements to the beat of the film’s songs. Even in the film’s credit sequence which is done all in one continuous tracking shot and take.

The film comes off as a nice movie that offers more of a lite touch. Though with humor and adrenaline-filled action scenes. That hardcore movie fans can enjoy for it’s more technical aspects and general audience members can enjoy as a fun action film. That is many things at once. As it pays homage to many films and genres which will seem familiar for many but new for some. One of them is a Teenage 1950’s film with diners and car racing and a love story in the middle with plans of running away together.

The soundtrack is the heartbeat for the film and the characters bot only the lead using it to fuel himself up. But also keeps the film moving. Along and on best and keeping the audience energized and going with it. Filling us with excitement and energy as well as adding some songs to our repertoire or recalling ones we think we know. As the cuts here are mostly deep ones

The film is wall to wall with music on it’s soundtrack that partially powers or motivates the protagonist due to a disability but also livens up the scenes making it feel like most of us have always wanted a soundtrack to go with our lives and actions. Sometimes with a popular song but mostly with something a little less unknown and obscure but fits the mood.

The film shows us this early in an inventive credit sequence and also in introducing us to the characters and situation in the opening scene. That allows for action but also alerts us to the character’s youth and sense of play in a tight situation. Which gives us a remembrance of the possibilities of youth? When you might never have known better about the dangers and situations you were facing. Even if you knew they were serious.

The film is lighter in touch than some more harder action movies which is part of the charm and broader appeal. 

For some they might find it too lighthearted or not enough substance and a general lack of action or even gunplay which might take them out of the film or find the film feeling like it is trying to hard to be cool. 

While it is a great film. It is also a film I can see younger people loving as it moves fast and really barely has anything offensive. Anything that does is on the edges and more due to language. So this is one of those movies I believe most ages can enjoy for the most part.

Another thing to admire about the film is that in these days of films filled with special effects for the smallest things. The director revealed that there was no CGI or green screen used to film the car chase sequences. The driving is all practically done.

It’s nice to see a film that is smaller budgeted and put out by a studio that is as exciting and fulfilling as the bigger budget blockbusters

Grade: A-

AMERICAN WEDDING (2003)

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Directed By: Jesse Dylan 
Written By: Adam Herz 
Cinematography: Lloyd Ahern II
Editor: Stuart Pappe

Cast: Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Alyson Hannigan, Eugene Levy, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eddie Kaye Thomas, January Jones, Molly Cheek, Fred Willard, Deborah Rush, Lawrence Pressman, Eric Allen Kramer, Nikki Ziering, John Cho, Jennifer Coolidge 

Jim Levenstein has finally found the courage to ask his girlfriend, Michelle Flaherty to marry him. She agrees to get married, but the problems don’t stop there for Jim. Now along with Paul Finch and Kevin Myers, Jim must plan the wedding. Unfortunately, Steve Stifler is in town and won’t let the wedding go past without having some fun himself, which includes setting up a secret bachelor party.

The end of the trilogy but not the end of the line for the film franchise. Though it does end a kind of era. Where the film’s humor is still mostly gross out juvenile, but here at least it tries to somewhat show some maturity.

Though the film is an ensemble and the last of an unplanned trilogy. This film allows Seann William Scott the scene-stealer from the earlier films to take center stage. As most of the scenes revolve around him. When they don’t they are on Jason Biggs and Alyson Hannigan’s characters.

Scott’s character kind of comes to the realization. That he has been less of a friend and more of a nuisance to those around him

And realizes they have all grown up and moved on. Whereas he is still kind of stuck. Here he is made to face responsibilities. 

The film Leaves most of the characters other than those mentioned high and dry or more reacting to them. As it introduces a love interest for him that he spends most of the movie trying to fool into believing he is a nice guy.  That character played by January Jones isn’t given much to do other than play pretty and an interested good girl of sorts. She doesn’t really stand out much in the role. 

All the trouble he causes leading up to Jim and Michelle’s wedding. While trying to help set it up. Is what most of the movie revolves around. Though it isn’t a one-man show of slapstick comedy it is entertaining and better than the last sequel in the series. 

Though you can appreciate this movie as we are seeing the characters mature and grow up. So that we feel a bond with them over the years and this is the culmination of them. Watching this film, It dawned on me that at this point other than stifler most of the characters here still have only been with and some still stuck On their loves from the first film. Though at the time seeming unnecessary as a plot point in the second film and trying to bleed the franchise out. 

Even as half the original cast is missing no Tara Reid, Natasha Lyonnne, Shannon Elizabeth, Chris Klein or Mena Suvari 

Here you truly notice That there never needed to be one. Though as new romances would mean giving them more screen time and from the beginning. Though an ensemble these movies have always seemed to revolve around the characters of Jim, Michele and stifled more heavily than the others. The others just happen to be characters in their world and not written as strongly Or specifically as these comedic but human creations 

GRADE: C+

DROP DEAD GORGEOUS (1999)

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Directed By: Michael Patrick Jann

Written By: Lona Williams 

Cinematography: Michael Spiller Editor: David Codrob & Janice Hampton 

Cast: Kirstie Alley, Kirsten Dunst, Denise Richards, Brittany Murphy, Amy Adams, Will Sasso, Mindy Sterling, Ellen Barkin, Allison Janney, Sam Mcmurray, Alexandra Holden, Matt Malloy, Mo Gaffney, Adam West, Nora Dunn, Jacy King, Amanda Detmer, Michael McShane, Jon T. Olson, Laurie Sinclair 

A small-town beauty pageant turns deadly as it becomes clear that someone will go to any lengths to win.

This should have been a bigger hit or at least better remembered. This movie had a cast of many before they were stars actresses. 

The film keeps it’s dark sense of humor throughout despite being more aimed at being a mainstream comedy. The film might think itself more of a satire but comes off more as straight comedy. It’s Inspired but the jokes don’t come off as sharp as they should. 

Watching this film originally in a theater was a memorable film experience if only because it is one of the few I watched with one of my best friends. It was a late summer movie and we were the only ones who seemed to laugh non-stop cementing our budding friendship. As we had the same kind of sense of humor.

Denise Richards looks the part, but also seems a little to long in the tooth for her role. As she looks noticeably older then the rest of the contestants. She also looks too polished. But does look like a beauty queen.

Kirsten Dunst is good as the lead. The beginning of her best roles playing more small town girls.

Though this is more of a teen movie. It spends just as much time on the adult characters. Who are more guilty in their influences and rivalries.

This is a kind of more studio oriented version of the 1970’s comedy SMILE. Which was also an ensemble comedy looking at a small town beauty pageant that was more risqué at the time and had a lot of material you couldn’t get away with now. This film is cleaner and snarkier then that one.

Amy Adams and Brittany Murphy are standouts amongst the cast. This is really Adams first big role and Brittany Murphy is hilarious in her supporting role. One wishes she had been given more to do and be in as she makes the material work and rise.

I remember this was one of the first roles I remember seeing Alison Janney in next to 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU. As she and Ellen Barkin steak their scenes together and even when apart they do.

This is one of the better film roles for Kirstie Alley has played. Here she is the villain and head of the pageant community and ceremony.

The movie is directed by Michael Patrick Jann who was a member of the sketch comedy group THE STATE as well as director of most of their specials. The performances end up better than the film overall.

The problem is at times the film comes off as too goofy and is mostly safe. Playing it’s

The Midwestern angle is strong. I guess they need representation in movies at the time. When it’s Strengths are more when it explores it’s dark side.

Though the humor never has quite the sting you expect and want 

GRADE: C+

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN (1985)

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Directed By: Alan Metter 
Written By: Amy Spies 
Cinematography By: Thomas E. Ackerman 
Editor: Donald Rawlins & Lorenzo DeStefano 

Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Helen Hunt, Shannen Doherty, Jonathan Silverman, Ed Lauter, Biff Yaeger, Ian Giatti, Holly Gagnier 

Janey is new in town, and soon meets Lynne, who shares her passion for dancing in general, and “Dance TV” in particular. When a competition is announced to find a new Dance TV regular couple, Janey and Lynne are determined to audition. The only problem is that Janey’s father doesn’t approve of that kind of thing. 

Based on the popular Cyndi Lauper hit song. That strangely isn’t used instead a cover version is.

This film is a perfect film for teenagers that parents will want them to watch as it is inoffensive and most of the trouble the characters get into is so innocent It’s almost cute. You don’t really have to edit this film much to broadcast it on television.

It tries to have more blue-collar characters versus the rich even though they all come from the suburbs, but it’s so easy to just make the villain a pampered rich girl that to Defeat. The protagonist as more working-class makes the divide and the lire of selling out so much more great.

Just like Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare the supporting characters are so much more interesting than the leads. Who strangely for a change really has very little angst and very little to actually rebel against.

As one would be more entertained by watching her best friend played by Helen Hunt and his best friend played by Jonathan Silverman romance one another them the two leads. That would have truly been different. One of the many early performances I remember her in even if Helen Hunt in this film looks a little long in the tooth but she gives the most fun performance throughout. I believe this might actually be my favorite performance of hers.

This is also an early role for Sarah Jessica parker who at this point I only remembered from SQUARE PEGS and FOOTLOOSE. Though for quite a while it was her definitive performance in my view until maybe L.A. STORY

One can admit this is not a good film but It’s thoroughly entertaining, but very 1980’s. This could easily be a cult classic which is Interesting because like most it didn’t start out trying to achieve that honor. Instead, it tries to track and include all of the fads of the time period.

The title of the film is based on the popular Cyndi Lauper hit song, but they couldn’t get the rights for her to sing it so they use a different vocalist and beat.

His father saying to forget his job when Faced with being fired unless his son throws the competition. Telling him if you can win this dance contest do it. Is a scene that means well but is hilarious to watch in all seriousness that it is intended

The fact that she never tells her father why she is sneaking out. This might help her and make things easier for her to go to dancing practice he may understand though he is strict it’s only dancing. Though then there would be no movie.

The 80’s cliche it the bad boy rebel who can dance immaculately well is one that strangely never caught on. His sister is played by a young Shannen Doherty. So this film is filled with plenty of child actors who amazed to gain life-long noted acting careers.

Co-star Holly Grangier is actually a trained dancer and did all of her own dancing.

Even the punks who crash and ruin the rich rivals debutante break into choreographed dancing. Through the close up’s slow mayhem and wild dancing throughout.

This movie is a trip but a worthwhile oddity to the collection.

Even though this movie can easily be seen as a cash in on Cyndi Lauper’s popular single and building a movie or story around it.

It’s ridiculous but fun and a pretty good representation of the theme of the song and the times it takes place in even if slightly toothless. It manages what it aims for and entertains It’s audience and luckily left an impression on them and a noted memory.

If I didn’t know better it seems like this type of innocence is what the Saturday morning show SAVED BY THE BELL aimed for

Kristi Somers was originally supposed to work only one day on this film. However, Director Alan Metter liked her performance so much, that a couple of additional scenes of her were added into the movie. This is one of her more legitimate movies and performances. As usually, her body of work was playing best friend happy characters who were sexy and usually bad influences in many T & A sex comedies of the ’80s. yet she was always someone to watch and enjoy as an actress also, even though she was usually topless.

I have a confession to make this film is a total guilty pleasure for me. I used to watch this all the time on cable and even had a taped version of it to watch.

This film continued my crush with Sarah Jessica Parker at the time. So it’s nice to see her be a child star who made it a life-long career. In movies, I first noticed her in FIRSTBORN, FOOTLOOSE and the television show SQUARE PEGS. Here she is rebellious against her father’s strictness but so cute and innocent and quite the dancer.

 Grade: B

THE KING OF STATEN ISLAND (2020)

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Directed By: Judd Apatow

Written By: Judd Apatow, Pete Davidson & Dave Sirus

Cinematography: Robert Elswit

Editor: Jay Cassidy, William Kerr & Brian Olds

Cast: Pete Davidson, Bill Burr, Marisa Tomei, Steve Buscemi, Bel Powley, Moises Arias, Carly Aquilino, Maude Apatow, Kevin Corrigan, Pamela Adlon, Rich Vos, Keith Robinson, Jimmy Tatro, Dominick Lombardozzi, Colson Baker, Ricky Velez, Lou Wilson

Scott has been a case of arrested development since his firefighter dad died. He spends his days smoking weed and dreaming of being a tattoo artist until events force him to grapple with his grief and take his first steps forward in life.

This is not Writer/Director Judd Apatow’s worst or most disappointing movie, but disappointing to a certain degree.

Saw the somewhat similar BIG TIME ADOLESCENCE where Pete Davidson played a similar aimless character who seems stuck in arrested development and mental illness. That film had a more straight to the point story whereas this seems to be comfortable in the moments. Wherever they go. Which is great for the performers, for the audience it can go either way. Which might be why this film isn’t as good as I had hoped as it feels a little familiar.

One of Judd Apatow’s talent is always getting comedic actors who he wants to work with to kind of write their own stories and movies that are a bit autobiographical and then they can try to tie it to a more central plot-oriented conceit. Allowing them to bring out the talents and charm of the actors. As well as make it feel more real as it is partly based in the leads life. This helping to bring out the best in them and showcase their talents. Usually giving them more depth and heart then they have ever been allowed before. 

He has become so good at mixing comedy and drama he feels like a modern-day James L. Brooks. Strangely Judd Apatow movies are also always reminiscent of John Cassavettes films. As he always wants to cut to the truth of the scenes and characters. Where he also let’s then scenes flow freely from comedy to devastating drama. This usually works when his films are further away from formula. 

It also helps that the characters in these movies might be more comedic and therefore humor but they also feel loved in more than just actorly in performance. 

This is one of the few films he has made that is less high concept. Usually there is a concept and users the comedians personality, charm and instincts to make it more of a character piece.

The film is big yet the main character is aimless. Things happen throughout making the film more eventful but leaving the film still kind of formless. Even with a skeleton underneath. As the film is too long. 

Pete Davidson is pretty much playing a less successful version of himself or his public persona. He is a charming knucklehead who seems charming and fun. Yet has presence and you would be friends with. It never totally understands. 

The cast gives it all but feels like a pilot. As it seems to set up a lot but never quite pull the trigger. so that there seems to be more room for development amongst the characters. 

The film offers comedian Bill Burr a great role close to the leading man and he is excellent in the role.

One wishes Pamela Adlon was in the film more and had more to do. The same with Marisa Tomei. As the film comes off more like a boy’s club. It’s the same fate As well for bel Powley as she is funny and sexy in her role. As a sometimes love interest who gets tired of being used and taken for granted.

The film doesn’t seem to know where it wants to go. As it leads us to various places. Sometimes it stays around, but often makes a pit stop and then moves forward going along and not really looking back too much and it doesn’t really have an ending. An Especially  satisfying one 

Once a plot does rear its head. The film stays with it then takes a turn to allow for some more wandering. Which leaves the film entertaining but makes it feel endless. 

The film leaves a lot of plates spinning. Where some characters appear and then disappear. Which works as it shows once away from the lead their influence is on existent. Their lack of importance to the main character is that small of an important overall to the Film and they almost come off as forgotten by the end. 

Grade: C