Jillian Bell – We Are Movie Geeks

CANDY CANE LANE – Review

*Eddie Murphy as ‘Chris Carver’ stars in CANDY CANE LANE Photo: CLAUDETTE BARIUS © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC*

CANDY CANE LANE is a light, pleasant little holiday treat, much like the candy its name suggests. The family comedy takes place on one of those streets nearly every town has, the one where neighbors out-do each other with the decorations, competing for the neighborhood honor of being named the annual winner. This story centers on one of those suburban families, headed by dad Chris Carver (Eddie Murphy). Chris Carver does indeed carve, in this case, handmade holiday decorations, which are overlooked for the prize every year. He is married to Carol (Tracee Ellis Ross), and they have three kids, Nicholas (Thaddeus J. Mixson), Joy (Genneya Walton), and Holly (Madison Thomas). Seeing a pattern here?

In case you missed, the film thoughtfully points that Christmas naming theme out for you in one scene.

For CANDY CANE LANE, director Reginald Hudlin pretty much throws in anything that would fit for a Christmas movie, and then goes for some other genres too, like family comedy and even horror. Hudlin’s “everything and the kitchen sink” approach doesn’t really add to “more is better” but there is some fun in this very busy film. And the director also adds subversive little tidbits too, turning holiday movie stereotyping on its head – like making the Black suburban family the film’s main characters instead of supporting ones.

Eddie Murphy’s Chris Carver really wants to win the neighborhood Christmas decorating contest, in part because he just lost his job and the contest has a cash prize this year. Looking for a way to up his decorating game, he stumbles across a holiday shop he never saw before, run by an impish woman named Pepper (Jillian Bell), who has a whiff of something scary about her. She sells Chris an impressively large yard-decor Christmas tree, festooned with the characters from the song “12 Days of Christmas,” and requires him to sign a receipt that as a lot of fine-print. “Just standard,” she says, hurrying him along. Pressed for time, Chris does sign without reading it. You know that can’t be good.

Some very crazy things start happening once Eddie Murphy’s Chris gets the huge decoration home, and there is more magical stuff involving those little Christmas village models, with Nick Offerman as one of the figurines. David Alan Grier shows up later too – as Santa.

Eddie Murphy plays his role straight and leaves the comedy heavy-lifting mostly to Jillian Bell, who chews up some scenery in a most entertaining way. While Murphy plays it straight, Jillian Bell gets the comedy spotlight, as a mischievous elf you don’t want on your shelf. (See, this stuff it contagious.) Still, its fun to see Eddie Murphy on screen again, playing a dad determined to give his kids the best Christmas ever – no matter what gets in his way.

The comedy has a bit of fun with breaking some Christmas movie rules too. For one, this suburban “candy cane lane” is in Southern California, so there is no chance of snow. When Santa rolls his sleigh down the lane, one of the homes is decked out for Hanukkah. As Santa passes, he points at houses to signal the homeowners to switch on the lights – or in case, inflate the army of inflatable figures clogging the yard. And there is a running joke about the clueless neighbors who serve box wine – in wine-growing California, gasp!

If you absolutely love Christmas movies, you should put this on your holiday list. If you are cooler to the genre, know that this isn’t the worst holiday movie – plenty ahead of it there – but it isn’t a must-see holiday future-classic either. Just a bunch of familiar holiday and family film tropes along with a few more surprising ones – a 12 Days of Christmas display come to life – but ideas well within the lane (ahem) of holiday fun.

Every character gets their moment, and the humor is broad and over-the-top. Nothing subtle here. But if Christmas excess is your holiday treat, CANDY CANE LANE might be the stocking-stuffer for you.

CANDY CANE LANE debuts streaming Friday, Dec. 1, on Amazon Prime.

RATING: 2 out of 4 stars

CANDY CANE LANE Trailer Features Eddie Murphy In His First Holiday Film

Eddie Murphy stars in this holiday comedy adventure about a man on a mission to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas home decoration contest. After Chris (Eddie Murphy) inadvertently makes a deal with a mischievous elf named Pepper (Jillian Bell) to better his chances of winning, she casts a magic spell that brings the 12 Days of Christmas to life, and wreaks havoc on the whole town. At the risk of ruining the holidays for his family, Chris, his wife Carol (Tracee Ellis Ross), and their three children must race against the clock to break Pepper’s spell, battle deviously magical characters, and save Christmas for everyone.

Watch the brand new trailer for CANDY CANE LANE now.

The film reunites director Reginald Hudlin, Murphy, and producer Brian Grazer for the first time since their 1992 hit, Boomerang. The screenplay comes from Kelly Younger, inspired by his own holiday experiences on Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo, California.

CANDY CANE LANE premieres globally on Prime Video December 1, 2023.

Jillian Bell as ‘Pepper,’ Eddie Murphy as ‘Chris Carver,’ and Madison Thomas as ‘Holly Carver’ star in CANDY CANE LANE Photo: CLAUDETTE BARIUS © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC

Thaddeus J. Mixson as ‘Nick Carver,’ Genneya Walton as ‘Joy Carver,’ Madison Thomas as ‘Holly Carver,’ Tracee Ellis Ross as ‘Carol Carver,’ and Eddie Murphy as ‘Chris Carver’ star in CANDY CANE LANE Photo: CLAUDETTE BARIUS © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC

Charlie Day Makes His Directorial Debut In FOOL’S PARADISE – Watch The Trailer Now

Here’s your first look at the brand new trailer for Charlie Day’s FOOL’S PARADISE.

The movie stars Charlie Day, Ken Jeong, Kate Beckinsale, Adrien Brody, Ray Liotta, Jason Sudeikis, Edie Falco, John Malkovich, Common, and Jillian Bell.

A satirical comedy about a down on his luck publicist, who gets his lucky break when he discovers a man recently released from a mental health facility looks just like a method actor who refuses to leave his trailer. With the help of a powerful producer, the publicist helps the man become a huge star, even marrying his beautiful leading lady. Their adventures lead them to cross paths with drunken costars, irreverent unhoused action heroes, unpredictable directors, super-agent, and power-mad moguls. Fame and fortune are not all they’re cracked up to be, and the two men must fight their way back to the things that matter the most.

Written and directed by Charlie Day in his directorial debut, the “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” actor stars alongside an all-star comedy cast. Featuring one of the final screen performances of Ray Liotta, the cast includes Ken Jeong, Kate Beckinsale, Oscar® winner Adrien Brody, Jason Sudeikis, Edie Falco, Jason Bateman, Common, Jillian Bell, Dean Norris, Jimmi Simpson, and John Malkovich. The film is produced by John Rickard (“Peacemaker” Rampage), along with Tim Zajaros and Christopher Lemole (The Peanut Butter Falcon, Mudbound), Alex Saks (Red Rocket, The Florida Project), and Rick Dugdale (Zero Contact). The executive producers are Kirk Michael Fellows, Rob Gough, Manu Gargi, and Bob Shapiro.

Roadside Attractions will release FOOL’S PARADISE only in theaters May 12, 2023.

Charlie Day and Adrien Brody in FOOL’S PARADISE / Courtesy of Roadside Attractions

https://www.foolsparadisemovie.com/

Charlie Day and Ray Liotta in FOOL’S PARADISE / Courtesy of Roadside Attractions

Charlie Day and Ken Jeong in FOOL’S PARADISE / Courtesy of Roadside Attractions

GODMOTHERED – Review

So, who could use a little magic? This year, who couldn’t, even with just a few weeks left in 2020? We’re not talking about luck or “good fortune”, but rather the sprinkly, sparkly spells that come straight from witches, pixies, and wizards. Sure, that’s the stuff of faerie tales, but wouldn’t it be great if that mythology had some real-life basis? Sweet, huh? Now other than big blue “motor-mouthed” genies, who’s the big “wish-granter”? Just ask the dazzling blonde rockin’ those glass slippers. She’ll tell you from first-hand knowledge that it’s pretty great to be GODMOTHERED. But would that “fly” today, even using lotsa’ pixie dust?

That question is answered in the new film by taking a trip to another dimension. Where do faerie godmothers come from? Why Motherland, of course. But things are pretty dismal there, as 21^st century Earth folk just don’t believe like they used to. The “GMs’ in the magic classes are pretty downbeat, except for the youngest one “in training”, the bubbly smiling Eleanor (Jillian Bell). But she’s even dismayed by the unexpected appearance in class by the “queen mum” and ruler of the land Moira (Jane Curtin). Unless some human is helped, the whole place will shut down and cease to exist. Things seem hopeless, but Eleanor won’t give up. Scouring the “request files” she finds one lonely letter, from little Mackenzie Walsh in Boston, USA. Without Moira’s knowing (she wouldn’t approve), Eleanor, with the aid of her roomie Agnes (June Squibb), dashes through a mystical portal to our world. Thing is, she’s still getting the hang of her wand, so she hitchhikes to “Bean-town” only to discover that her last chance isn’t a child (that letter had been there a while). Mackenzie (Isla Fisher) is the single mother of two young women, Jane (Jillian Shea Spaeder) and Mia (Willa Skye) who’s working as a news segment producer for a struggling TV station. Of course, she thinks Eleanor, in her frilly pink ball gown, is a tad “touched” in the head. Can Eleanor possibly get her “spell-casting act” together and get the Walsh family to believe in magic before that portal closes and Motherland is no more?

After stealing scenes in several studio ensemble comedies (22 JUMP STREET, ROUGH NIGHT, THE NIGHT BEFORE) and headlining an indie (BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON), Bell looks to expand into family flicks as the simple sunny Eleanor. She succeeds for the most part, due to her fearless comic commitment (getting pelted with pumpkin mush while in that pink hoop dress) and slapstick skills (trying to control a wand that seems to have a mind of its own). It’s a smooth stroll from the hard-partying gal-pal to the sweet, clueless, and clumsy conjuror. Luckily the character has a superb straight-man, er…woman, and “reality buffer” in Fisher as the sour, cynical Mackenzie whose tough “outer layer” is slowly melted away by Eleanor’s optimism. She’s got great support at home with the two talented young actresses playing her daughters. Skye’s Mia hasn’t quite shaken her sense of joy and wonder, while Spaeder as big sis Jane is still haunted by the family’s past tragedy which almost stifles her creative musical talents (she’s been given the big solo at the holiday pageant). As for “Mack’s” work “fam”, Santiago Cabrera is an affable encouraging “chum’, who may become something more, as her “roving reporter” Hugh Prince (hmmm…that last name). Much of that applies to Mack’s BFF Duff played with a subtle sense of snark by Artemis Pebdani. Of course, not everybody can be nice and helpful (although both certainly apply to the always fun Squibb as Agnes). Bell’s BRITTANY love interest Utkarsh Ambudkar provides a smidge of comic villainy as Mack’s rating and publicity (“Gotta’ go viral!”) desperate boss Grant. And though she’s tart and intimidating, Curtin as Moira proves to be the “tough love” matriarch that Eleanor needs, though she has a real scary regal vibe about her.

A veteran of two BRIDGET JONES films, director Sharon Maguire does a fairly good job of keeping the story from collapsing under excess whimsy while eliciting great comic work from the cast (would love to see Bell and Fisher teamed again for a more adult romp). Unfortunately, her efforts are often undone by a script that begs too many comparisons to the superior fantasy /modern-day comedy mash-ups ELF and ENCHANTED. Some of the plot machinations are predictable (somehow the station’s ratings skyrocket due to Eleanor’s mishaps) and inconsistent (that wand seems to work correctly when needed for the story). And the attempts at pathos are somewhat heavy-handed, especially in the big musical finale. The various locales around Boston are lovely, as is the “faerie-world” of Motherland (still too many historical problems with that word, though). Big kudos however for the charming “2-D” animated prologue which would be a great medium for a modest follow-up (a bit of a long-shot). Though it’s doubtful that this film could become a perennial fave like the aforementioned flicks, the smallest tykes may be entertained for a bit as their folks indulge in some “cyber-shopping” rather than getting GODMOTHERED.

2 Out of 4

GODMOTHERED streams exclusively on Disney+ beginning December 4^th, 2020.

BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON – Review

We may be almost past swimsuit season (at least in the northern half of the US), but it’s never too late to get moving and get healthy. And though those New Year’s resolutions are several months away, that goal’s on the mind of this new movie’s title heroine (who just happens to be based on a real person…but don’t let that deter you). Another big motivator is the big event in the title. And yes, the flick covers all the dieting, training, and various ‘prep’ work, but it’s really about so much more. As the ads promise this story is very funny at times, propelled by the talents of a most captivating comedy actress, but there’s more to this than pratfalls and slapstick. This is a story of a woman who wants to do more than win the race or even just cross the finish line. She needs to get moving in order to move her life forward, to bust out of a life-stalling rut. That’s the main reason why BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON.

But when we first meet Brittany (Jillian Bell) she and her life are at a standstill. She barely makes her rent as a ticket taker/assistant manager at an off, way off-Broadway theatre. Luckily she shares a grungy, funky little walk-up apartment with aspiring “social media influencer” Gretchen (Alice Lee). Brittany spends too many nights with Gretchen and her pals boozing at bars and clubs, waking the next day with a killing hangover and a numbing shame over degrading anonymous “hook-ups”. But she has a “wake up call” via her latest physical. Doc Falloway (Patch Darragh), much to Brit’s humiliation, bluntly tells her that she’s dangerously overweight and out of shape. After deciding against joining a gym (“Starting at $129 a month?! Starting?!!”), she decides to begin jogging. When she retreats to her apartment after a humiliating first run, her whimpers get the attention of annoying upstairs neighbor “Moneybags Martha” AKA Catherine (Michaela Watkins). After some needed, though unwanted, encouragement, she convinces Britany to join her morning “runners’ club”. There she befriends another struggling jogger, married dad Seth (Micah Stock). Eventually the trio bond, and after a few short races, decides to try for the big New York City marathon the next November. But there are fees involved, so Brittany grabs a second job as a “dog-sitter” during the day for a rich couple enjoying a long vacation. Perfect, until the “night-sitter”, a fast-talking hustler named (really) Jern (Utkarsh Ambudkar) decides to move in, 24-7. But Brittany is determined to make the race while fighting her attraction to him. But can she stay “on track” and keep her eyes on the goal (that finish line) when life tosses countless hurdles and obstacles in her path? She’s gotta’ keep moving forward.

This true tale provides the near-perfect showcase for the considerable talents of Ms. Bell. In the last few years she’s easily stolen scenes (sometimes the entire flick) in 22 JUMP STREET, THE NIGHT BEFORE, and ROUGH NIGHT (as a zany “party girl” with a nice dramatic “backstory”). Here she ably carries the film, turning what could have been another “one-note” klutzy “cut-up’ into one of this year’s most complex characters. Brittany’s no comic cliche’. Sure she’s quite funny (I’m thinking her pre-show chatter at her theatre gig is much better than the play), but we soon see her ‘dark side’ in the club sequence that switches gears from hilarity to true sadness. Yes, we’re quickly “rooting” for her, but Bell is constantly catching us “off guard”. We see the disgust in her eyes as she glances at a mirror while reaching for a “munchkin”. Then her self-loathing will strike out at others who try to help. Minutes later Bell will show us the “softer” side of Britt as she begins to thaw and flirts with Jern (oh, that pesky stiff neck). The character’s “downward spiral” crashes to a sickening thud as Brit pummels a party guest with cruel verbal stiletto-like jabs (all while Bell gives her a dead-eyed stare). Bell is endearing and frustrating as she often sabotages several attempts at emotional intimacy. Britt isn’t just a female version of the “frat-boy man-child” who suddenly straightens up (and grows up). There are real consequences to her actions. Bravo to Bell for bucking the notion that a film’s heroine must be pleasant and “nice” at all times. And kudos to her amazing range in this, the first of many, lead role.

Ah, but she’s not the “whole show’ (or I should say “race”). Watkins makes an excellent screen sparing partner, giving us a woman who seems to have it “all”, but is battling demons of the past and present. She’s a powerful positive force in Britt’s corner as is Stock whose Seth could easily have been that “rom-com” cliche ultra-supportive gay pal of the heroine. Yes, he’s there for her, but he endures the pain for his husband and son (with maybe another child if he stays healthy). Ambudkar is a comedic whirlwind as Jern, who he plays with just the right amounts of snark and endearing “boyishness” (love his defense of TV cartoons). He’s exasperating and charming (often at the same time). Lee as roommate Gretchen has a couple of terrific ‘throw-downs’ with Bell when she goes from encouraging to threatened by Britt’s goals (she thinks it’s really a mean dig at her). And speaking of “scene stealers”, the man who purloined GET OUT, Lil Rel Howery shines again as Britt’s brother-in-law (who’s more of a surrogate daddy) offering encouragement from Brit’s hometown of Philly via Skype calls (and later in-person). Oh, and hats off to current SNL cast member Mikey Day for his very funny cameo as the gym salesman.

This is quite an impressive screen debut from director/writer Paul Downs Colaizzo who finds the correct balance of comedy and pathos. His script doesn’t feel “jokey”, as it never hits a false note. He truly makes Brittany an “everywoman”, a character that most women, and men, can identify (or at least see in a friend or relative). Colaizzo finds a most clever way to visualize modern electronics, even using a split-screen to show Britt’s reaction to a downloaded image. This works particularly well as Jern helps her fill out an online form on a dating site (nice, clean animated graphics). He makes some good visuals choice as Brit imagines being in that big race using one solid color around her. Certainly, there are clever discussions of body image and shaming, but it’s equally sharp about the emotional issues. Brittany needs to get healthy in her psyche, too. She has to run towards, and not away from, adulthood, committing and following through on a “life plan”. these goals, rather than the medal, are what make BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON a truly compelling journey that truly “goes the distance”, along with the wonderful work of Ms. Bell.

3.5 Out of 4

BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON opens everywhere and screens exclusively in the St Louis area at Landmark’s Tivoli Theatre and the Hi-Pointe Theatre

Check Out the New Poster and Trailer for BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON

Amazon Studios will release BRITTANY RUNS A MARATHON in theaters on August 23, 2019

Hilarious, outgoing and always up for a good time, New Yorker Brittany Forgler is everybody’s best friend ― except maybe her own. At 27, her hard-partying ways, chronic underemployment and toxic relationships are catching up with her, but when she stops by a new doctor’s office to try to score some Adderall, she gets slapped with a prescription she never wanted: Get healthy. Too broke for a gym and too proud to ask for help, Brit is at a loss, until her seemingly together neighbor Catherine pushes her to lace up her Converse sneakers and run one sweaty block. The next day, she runs two. And soon, after finishing her first mile, she sets an almost unthinkable goal: running in the New York City Marathon.

This new Trailer looks fantastic:

Award-winning playwright Paul Downs Colaizzo makes his directorial debut with Brittany Runs a Marathon, an uproarious, irreverent and surprisingly emotional comedy inspired by real events. The irresistible cast, led by Jillian Bell, lends heart and soul to this inspirational story of a party girl who finally finds real friends — and dignity — by taking control of her future, one city block at a time.

FIST FIGHT – Review

A showdown’s a’ comin’! Not on the main street of Dodge City, but at the multiplex once again. The final throw down between the hero and villain has been a staple of cinema since its earliest days, mainly in action films and primarily the western. There have been countless screen versions of that infamous incident , the gunfight at the O.K. Corral (the most famous being the Kirk Douglas/Burt Lancaster 1950’s classic) . This most likely inspired many other “oaters”, the most celebrated being the iconic 1952 HIGH NOON (which garnered an Oscar for star Gary Cooper). It’s set in real-time as the clock ticks to 12, while Will Kane readies himself for the arrival of the Miller gang. We’ve seen this plot used in many other genres, providing extra excitement to the final acts of every movie hero’s exploits from Rocky to Bond to Batman. But it’s also been seen in comedies, with this new film taking place in a high school. Could this be a remake/reboot of the thirty year cult classic from Phil Joanou, THREE O’CLOCK HIGH? Not exactly, since that flick concerned two students in a violent conflict. This time it’s two very different teachers from the same school preparing to square off in a FIST FIGHT.

It’s the last day of school before Summer vacation at run-down Roosevelt High, but English teacher Andy Campbell (Charlie Day) isn’t celebrating his three-month break. He’s under pressure at the start of this day, and things go downhill fast. He’s got to rush out at 2:30 to be part of his pre-teen daughter’s song and dance routine at her grade school talent show. His wife Maggie (JoAnna Garcia Swisher) could give birth any second. He fears that he may lose his job due to massive budget cuts (big meeting with the principal and the superintendent). And to top it off the graduating seniors are in full prank mode (they even stole a horse that’s dashing through the hallways). But the big problem comes out of nowhere when the surly intimidating history teacher Mr. Strickland (Ice Cube) asks Andy to help him with some faulty AV equipment. At that class, Andy sees Strickland lose his temper (a desk becomes kindling). The two men are called into Principal Tyler’s (Dean Norris) office, but Strickland isn’t worried since he told Andy that teachers stick together. Then Tyler threatens their jobs and Andy tells the truth about the melt- down. Strickland is fired and as he boxes up his stuff he tells Andy to be in the parking lot at 3 PM where they will settled things with a fist fight. Andy believes it’s a joke, but Strickland is dead, dead serious. As the hours fly by, a very nervous Andy implores his faculty friends, Coach Crawford (Tracy Morgan), who’s just finished another losing season, and guidance counselor in great need of guidance Holly (Jillian Bell), for any advice. Soon, he’s in panic mode doing everything he can, legally or not, to avoid that confrontation. As “high mid-afternoon” approaches, it looks like the mismatched pair will square off in an epic battle royale’.

After honing his comic skills on TV (the cult hit “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”) and supporting roles (HORRIBLE BOSSES, THE HOLLARS, PACIFIC RIM, VACATION) Day makes the most of this, his first true lead role. Based on his energetic work here, I’m sure it will be the first of many. He’s got a real “everyman” vibe, which adds strength to his scenes of slapstick panic. There’s the twitching, the awkward body language, and best of all that voice. When he’s truly agitated or trying to lie his way out, his high-pitched voice jumps several octaves until it’s almost a strained squeak, His exasperated hero is a worthy successor to the energetic mania of the much-missed Gene Wilder (with maybe a dash of Don Knotts). Even as he concocts some devious scheme, the guy’s still so darned lovable that we can’t help but root for him. Ice Cube is an inspired antagonist for him as the human embodiment of an about-to-erupt volcano. His glowering grimacing Strickland intimidates students and faculty alike, as they try to get out of his way before he explodes. Scary as he is, Cube makes this guy really funny. After family friendly work in his BARBERSHOP and ARE WE THERE YET roles, he seems to relish this return to the “bad dude” persona.

Happily the combatants don’t get all the fun (or score all the laughs). That scene stealing Ms. Bell (22 JUMP STREET, THE NIGHT BEFORE) dashes away with several inspired sequences, whether trying to downplay her enthusiasm for illegal substances or justify a crush on a student (all of which horrify Day). Like Day she’ll soon be breaking out into leading roles (playing the Hanks roles in a rumored remake of SPLASH), giving Melissa McCarthy some competition as the queen of movie comedies. Another source of great supporting gags is the always surprising Morgan who’s endearing goofy as the clueless coach. His baffling bits of “wisdom'” confuse Day, until the coach lays down a heavy bit of truth, refusing to sugarcoat what will happen if the battle happens. And somehow Morgan brings a mischievous joy to the role. Norris is an excellent “short fuse” straight man as the beleaguered principal doing a “slow burn” that would make the immortal Edgar Kennedy proud (Google him, folks). Unfortunately the other ladies in the cast are not as well served by the script as Bell. The movies just don’t seem to know what to do with the talented Christina Hendricks (so wonderful on TV’s “Mad Men”). After a dismal role in BAD SANTA 2, she’s wasted here once more as the bombshell French teacher who’s really a sadist (she gleefully offers her blade to gut Andy like a fish). Swisher is yet another “wife on the phone” who looks concerned while we wait for the big birthing scene. And Kumail Nanjinai. so funny as the randy masseuse in last year’s MIKE AND DAVE NEED WEDDING DATES, has little to do as the ineffectual school security officer.
Making his feature film directing debut, after toiling in the TV trenches, Richie Keen proves to be an adept comedy conductor. Like a film veteran he knows how to steer our eyes toward the funny during sequences of mass comedy chaos. Beside eliciting some terrific performances, he knows how to control the flow, whether slowing things down a bit to revel in some inspired wordplay (Holly:” Meth’s more of a gateway drug.” Andy: “No, it’s really the finish line!”) or to accelerate as the senior pranks “amp up” (the mariachi band is a great running gag). Unfortunately he’s tripped up (as are many comedy film makers) by the dreaded lull around the midway mark. Perhaps the script (based on a story by “new Girl” star Max Greenfield and others) needed a bit more polish and another “once over”. This would’ve helped define some characters and trimmed some of the numbing barrage of “f-bombs” and genitalia jokes (to ensure that R-rating, I suppose). As with the recent dud, THE COMEDIAN, they resort to the cheap shock of us hearing a foul-mouthed pre-teen. Much worse than the earlier film and just as lazy. But the first and third acts are so strong, it’s inevitable that the second act would drag. Fortunately the big battle lives up to the long build-up with inspired bits of slapstick, although it never goes “human cartoon” like the 60’s gem THE ADVENTURES OF BULLWHIP GRIFFIN ( a Saturday matinée delight). The talented cast and the laugh-stuffed opening and finale more than make up for its flaws (it could’ve been another MASTERMINDS…yeesh!). It never scores a TKO, but FIST FIGHT delivers some solid strikes to the funny bone.

3.5 Out of 5

Win Passes To The Advance Screening Of FIST FIGHT In St. Louis

Ice Cube and Charlie Day star as high school teachers prepared to solve their differences the hard way in the comedy FIST FIGHT, directed by Richie Keen (“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”) – in theaters February 17!

On the last day of the year, mild-mannered high school English teacher Andy Campbell (Day) is trying his best to keep it together amidst senior pranks, a dysfunctional administration and budget cuts that put jobs on the line. But things go from bad to worse when he accidentally crosses his much tougher and deeply feared colleague, Ron Strickland (Cube), who challenges Campbell to an old-fashioned throw down after school. News of the fight spreads like wildfire and ends up becoming the very thing this school, and Campbell, needed.

FIST FIGHT also stars Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”), Jillian Bell (“22 Jump Street”), Dean Norris (“Breaking Bad”), Christina Hendricks (“Mad Men”), Dennis Haysbert (“The Unit”), and JoAnna Garcia Swisher (“The Astronaut Wives Club”).

WAMG invites you to enter for the chance to win TWO (2) seats to the advance screening of FIST FIGHT on FEBRUARY 13 at 7PM in the St. Louis area.

Answer the following:

Charlie Day is best known for playing Charlie Kelly in what TV series?

TO ENTER, ADD YOUR NAME, ANSWER AND EMAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA THE DAY OF THE SCREENING.

2. No purchase necessary. A pass does not guarantee a seat at a screening. Seating is on a first-come, first served basis. The theater is overbooked to assure a full house. The theater is not responsible for overbooking.

It is rated R for language throughout, sexual content/nudity and drug material.

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY – Review

“It’s that time of year….” for another big holiday themed comedy. We’ve had a big family yuletide mix of laughs and tears with ALMOST CHRISTMAS, that’s, ahem, almost a month old now. That bit of tinsel joined a long list of similar movie comedies like LOVE THE COOPERS and a film now considered an annual viewing tradition for many, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION. Yes, they’re all holiday hijinks with the family, but that other family is largely ignored. I’m speaking of the “workplace family”, the folks you bond with while “on the job” (many “workaholics” spent more time with them than their spouses and kids). Ah, the studios got the hint, so the newest movie present under the big multiplex tree is all set to be unwrapped. Looks like we’re all invited to the big OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY.
The film begins with a tough pre-holiday event for Josh Parker (Jason Bateman) as he finalizes his divorce, He tries to look on the bright side while walking to his job at a Chicago-based data service company. Unfortunately moral there is more than a bit down. Supervisor Nate (Karan Soni) endures merciless teasing from his co-workers who believe his “always outta’ town” supermodel girlfriend is fiction. Executive secretary and newly single mom Allison (Vanessa Bayer) fights on the phone with her reckless ex. Mary (Kate McKinnon), the up-tight head of human resources, annoys those that aren’t on the straight and narrow (“button up that blouse!”). And the pessimistic Jeremy (Rob Corddry) always seems to be ready to “blow a gasket”. Fortunately Josh is team-mates (and perhaps a bit more) with the resident IT wizard Tracey (Olivia Munn) who’s quick with a wisecrack and ideas for new projects. Plus Josh is great pals with the branch’s boss, and son of the company founder, Clay Vanstone (T.J. Miller), a fun, generous fella’ who’s looking forward to giving his employees a big holiday party. All seems to be a go for a “blow-out” that will allow everybody to “blow off some steam”. Then big trouble arrives in stiletto heels, it’s Clay’s stepsister Carol (Jennifer Aniston), who oversees all the company’s outlets. She’s just closed the Orlando branch and has set the flagship office in her cost-cutting sights. Unless Clay and his team can land a big fish, namely a tech mega-company repped by Walter Davis (Courtney B. Vance) who’s only in town for a couple of days, the ax will fall. Oh, and there will be no holiday party, either (what a humbug!). Clay, Josh, and Tracey scurry over to a swank hotel to meet with the “button-down” Davis. He’s not impressed, so Clay plays a hunch and invites him to the big company Christmas party that night. But with just hours to go, can they put together a bash that will save their jobs? Really, what could possibly go wrong?

The calibre of the comedy dream team gathered for this flick is truly amazing. Leader of the pack is the always dry, understated Bateman who still doing a riff on his “Arrested Development” TV role, namely the voice of reason trying to stay afloat in a sea of insanity. His skill at getting big laughs from subtle facial expressions and line delivery is truly impressive. Frequent co-star Aniston (is this their fourth, fifth, or tenth movie?) is basically doing a less sexually aggressive spin on her HORRIBLE BOSSES man-eater. She’s still intimidating as she makes it clear that her threats are very real. Usual funny sidekick player Miller really swings for the fences in more of a big league, or lead, role. Unfortunately we’ve seen this “man-child” persona before and can’t help wonder if the script made a pitstop at Will Ferrell’s doorstep. Munn gets to show off more of her playful sassy, sexy side here than in many of her recent roles ( RIDE ALONG 2 particularly). Corddry has little to do other than reprise his “angry frat-boy” jerk from his HOT TUB gigs. A big surprise is the energetic performance from Vance, usually a somber, serious actor (recently winning awards as Johnnie Cochran in the TV OJ docudrama) who appears to relish the chance to cut loose and get goofy. Oh, and there’s not one but two current SNL stars. Bayer (who was in TRAINWRECK last year) is one of the story’s more sympathetic characters as her smiles mask her frustrations with her ex and with a possible new suitor. McKinnon, the true shining light of the recent GHOSTBUSTERS reboot, brings her usual focused commitment to the prudish Mary, but her talent is wasted on a role that goes in a most obvious direction. We’re just waiting for her to unleash her “wild side” (she does “rock” a “non-denominational holiday sweater”). Sam Richardson of TV’s “Veep” wrings some laughs as the office drone turned clumsy, clunky “hip hop” DJ. Randall Park, THE INTERVIEW’s subject, has an hilariously awkward romantic encounter with Bayer. Two funny ladies score big laughs with their brief work here. Jillian Bell (23 Jump Street) is Trina, the boss of a, uh, “escort service” who goes from pleasant “sing song”-voiced people-pleaser to vicious “gangsta” pimp at the drop of a hat. But guilty of “grand theft larceny” as she steals her scene with Aniston is the hysterical Fortune Feimster, now on TV’s “the Mindy Project” as Aniston’s chattering Uber driver who delivers a truly clever rant on the name “Carol”. It’s no wonder she delivers the film’s final chuckle.

Oh, if only the finished film were worthy of this all-star cast. It’s like assembling Marvel’s Avengers to bust jaywalkers. They’re cast adrift in this murky mess of a script, credited to six (!) writers, which meanders aimlessly. I was often wondering if the actors were pressured to come up with better bits on set (or think them up after hours). Too many punchlines never connect and land with a loud thud, or are greeted with silence. Plus the constant shots of folks over-indulging gets tiresome (as Gene and Roger remarked about watching somebody play a video game), just as in last year’s SISTERS. The “rom-com’ subplot never surprises, and the “save the day” finale is telegraphed from the first ten minutes. Oh, and the flick commits the worst crime of comedy movies: All the laughs are in the trailer! When they occur we think “Oh, I recall that from the TV spot on SNL”. And here’s a private pet peeve. It’s set in Chicago (the offices are across from the big Picasso sculpture, for gosh sake!) and the credits proclaim “filmed in Atlanta”. Just as with THE BOSS, c’mon! Durn’ “bean-counters’! Directing duo (two directors and six screenwriters!) Josh Gordon and Will Speck make the movie feel like we’re enduring a real interminable party that just will never end, one where you wish the host would start turning off the lights and the music. At the film’s final moments we’ve suffering from a “cinematic hangover” and filled with regret for all the missed comic opportunities. These wonderfully talented performers deserve a better vehicle than the sloppy OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY.
2 Out of 5

Win Passes To The Advance Screening Of OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY In St. Louis

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY is in theaters December 9, 2016!

In OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY, when the CEO (Jennifer Aniston) tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he (T.J. Miller) and his Chief Technical Officer (Jason Bateman) must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.

The latest comedy from directors Josh Gordon and Will Speck (BLADES OF GLORY) co-stars Kate McKinnon, Olivia Munn, Jillian Bell, Rob Corddry, Vanessa Bayer, Randall Park, Sam Richardson, Jamie Chung, and Courtney B. Vance in the funniest movie of the holiday season.

WAMG invites you to enter for the chance to win TWO (2) seats to the advance screening of OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 7PM in the St. Louis area.

Answer the following:

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY marks Aniston’s fifth collaboration with Bateman. Name the other FOUR films these two have appeared in together.

TO ENTER, ADD YOUR NAME, ANSWER AND EMAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA THE DAY OF THE SCREENING.

Rated R

#OfficeXmasParty

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Official Website: http://www.officechristmasparty.com

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