In addition to Black and Cera, the cast is littered with familiar faces all adding little bits of comedy, from a nearly unrecognizable Bill Hader, to Paul Rudd and David Cross (as Abel and Cain), to Oliver Platt as a flamboyant high priest, to the lovely Olivia Wilde of House as the Princess. Also, we cannot forget Christopher Mintz-Plasse (developing quite a career, no?) as Isaac, the rebellious, near-sacrificial son of Hank Azaria's Abraham. The jokes come fast and furious; when one or two fail to land, another is not far behind.
This is not Harold Ramis' finest hour. In fact, it is a distinct step down from his last effort, the 2005 comic thriller The Ice Harvest. Frankly, this probably would not have been any different had someone else been at the helm, and I like Ramis. He is also credited as co-writer alongside Gene Stupnitsky and Lee Eisenberg. This is the big screen debut for the latter two, who have also been announced as the writing team for Ghostbusters III. Again, this is not the best day for this trio, and this despite me liking the movie.
Bottom line. The cast and their ability to carry an overall weak movie won me over. I laughed and I laughed some more. The movie is utterly ridiculous. It is not the best comedy I have seen this year, far from it, but it is delightful, vulgar, and ultimately worth my time. Just be sure to leave the little ones at home.
Recommended.
Article comments
1 - charmer1
Saw the movie myself.I think you still gave it too much credit.Ramis was trying to make a Mel Brooks movie.Think History of the World: Part 1.Ramis tried too hard on this one.
2 - DW
Ah interesting, I was going to reject this film out of hand but you might've changed my mind.