DADDY’S HOME (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.4|5.0 Starsìììì

Daddy’s Home does something rare in a comedy script—it keeps its comedic pace evenly distributed throughout the movie without a drop, dip, or single flag in style. The dialogue and scenes deliver a beautiful understanding of the nuances that play out between men of opposite character trying to work through and establish common meeting ground in a situation that seems to predict complete failure. The storyline is a little ‘edgy’ but makes that edginess work for the overall benefit of the film without offending. Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg act their assigned characters through perfectly rendered body language, well-timed dialogue, and delightful coordination of choreography. Supporting cast members do not overshadow the lead characters’ roles. The film, from beginning to end, establishes itself as a terrific and thoroughly enjoyable watch.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

New step dad, Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), and ‘real’ dad, Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), interlock horns over territorial rights.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Sean Anders for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Sean Anders, Riza Aziz, Jessica Elbaum, David Koplan, Joey McFarland, Diane Pokorny, and Kevin J. Messick for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), Sara (Linda Cardellini), Leo Holt (Thomas Haden Church), Megan (Scarlett Estevez), Dylan (Owen Vaccaro) Dr. Francisco (Bobby Cannavale), Griff (Hannibal Buress), Jerry (Bill Burr), Doris (Jamie Denbo), Dental Hygenist (Mark L. Young), Pete (Matthew Paul Martinez), Panda Singer #1 (Dave Davis), and Panda Singer #2 (James Harlon Palmer).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The movie deserves a sequel and sets itself up for Daddy’s Home 2 that adds John Lithgow, Mel Gibson, and John Cena to the story.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

DESPICABLE ME 4 (Released to Theaters USA 2024)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì  Despicable Me 4—another great film that marks Illumination Studios as king of the animation world—WOW! This movie may not stand out quite as much as part 1, 2, and part 3 of the series, but its colorfulness and flair for catching family life can be well received. This is a 'no shab' watch that emphasizes original and creative character development and the impact good writers can make to a movie. Fun watch.    Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline  Gru is a special agent who takes down criminals. But an old villain wants revenge for Gru ruining his award reception and putting him in prison.  Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Chris Renaud for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Chris Meledandri and Brett Hoffman for making the film possible. Cast includes Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Pierre Coffin, Joey Cosgrove, Stephen Colbert, Sofia Vergara, and Will Ferrell.  Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This is great watch and has the Illumination Studios stamp for a quality, wonderful story.  Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers