Movie Review: Next Day Air - Page 2

I want to say Next Day Air is better than I had hoped it would be, and I can, I just don't think I would be telling the entire truth. I was kind of hoping for more of a comedy, but that would probably have meant more of a cliched film. I was pleasantly surprised to find the story to be a bit weightier and result in more of a serious film with events that have actual implications for the characters. However, it is that blend of comedy and serious action that both helps and hinders the project as a whole.

Benny Boom is in the director's chair making his big screen debut, jumping over from music videos. He does a good job keeping the film on track, walking the fine line between the silly and the serious. He worked from a script from first-timer Blair Cobbs, who does not seem to know what type of film he wanted to make, ultimately mashing them together the best way he can.

The ensemble cast does the best they can with what little they have. It seems that some of the characters did not have a lot of time to make their presence felt, most notably Mos Def, who is fantastic in his brief screen appearance. Yasmin Deliz makes much of her time, making an impression as the strong girlfriend who refuses to sit by and be a mere witness to events that could impact her own survival.

Still, as pleasantly surprising and well constructed as it was, I cannot help but wonder what it could have been had they chosen one direction or the other. This mish-mash of genres is a little jarring as we move back and forth between violence and bloodshed and pot-smoking comedy. It is not done quite as elegantly as Pineapple Express.

Bottom line. I did like this movie. The story keeps its focus while its genre does not. The ensemble cast does a fine job with what they are given. This is worth taking a look at.

Recommended.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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