Adam Sandler uses less physical comedy in his routine as the dialogue heavy scenes call for supporting comedy from Skeeter’s co-worker Mickey (Russell Brand). Even Sandler’s constant co-stars Rob Schneider and Allen Covert get in the act. Buzz Lightyear also makes an appearance.
Filmmakers ramp up the stunts and special effects so the proceeding aren’t too “after school special” sappy. Director Adam Shankman creates appealing visuals with great lighting and cinematography in nearly every shot. Each character’s traits line up with ending resolutions and it is entertaining to see how the stories play out in real life. The story clogs a bit with some formulaic elements, like manipulating emotions where Skeeter lets the children down even though he was totally ignorant of a key business decision.
The fantasy explanations appear as the story progresses, but the movie gravitates towards this common theme: if you look for goodness/adventure in life, you will find it. This approach allows Skeeter to handle situations differently and positively as he gives up personal control while trying to look for life’s cues from the stories. It might have been funny to see other way Skeeter might have handled these events, but the plot ploy works pretty well. This comedy needed more finesse for a blockbuster best seller, but plays fairly overall while even leaving the story open for a sequel. This fantasy comedy comes recommended with reservations and rated PG for mild language and some crude humor.
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