Clint Says: Wait for the digital release

When I saw the trailer for this film I thought it was going to attempt to be a riotously hilarious road trip, buddy comedy. Then I saw the film and realized it was something much more than that. 

This is one of the more pleasantly surprising films I've had the pleasure of seeing in quite some time. It's filled with happiness, joy, innocence, and humor. The main character's love of life and people is highly infectious. If you are like me, you will find yourself with a big, silly grin on your face every time she is on screen. 

THE KING OF STATEN ISLAND

Rated: R

Release Date: June 12, 2020 (VOD)

Director: Judd Apatow

Stars: Pete Davidson, Marisa Tomei, Bel Powley, Bill Burr

Plot: A mid-20's man, still directionless and living with his mom, is shaken by several events that force him to confront his past and plan for the future

Trailer

Clint Says: Worth a watch, but make sure the kids are in bed first

For fans of SNL you already know what a fantastic talent Pete Davidson is. For everyone else, you are about to find out. Davidson plays the going-nowhere son of a hero firefighter killed in the line of duty. This had to be somewhat of a cathartic role for him since his real father was a firefighter killed on 9/11. 

Considering the subject matter and this being Davidson's first starring role in a feature film, this could have easily fallen off the rails and become a 2-hour slog. Instead, it has a special magic to it that you rarely see in comedies. 

The film does take a while to get going, but after about 30 minutes it hits its stride and becomes a great movie. Marisa Tomei adds so much to the film that I would say this is her best role since she played Mona Lisa Vito in MY COUSIN VINNY.

The rest of the cast fill out the story  well. There are several entertaining characters that spice everything up. Bel Powley and Steve Buscemi are standouts that steal several scenes. 

For those of you wanting a polished comedy from an SNL veteran, like the films from Will Ferrel, Adam Sandler, and Chris Farley, you'll want to adjust your settings before watching this one. This feels much more like a low-budget indie film. It is amazing and hilarious, but it isn't your typical comedy style. Fans of indie cinema are going to love this.

If you are looking for some good laughs in a story that feels like it shouldn't have a bunch of laughs this is your movie. Put the kids to bed early, (this film is 2 hours 16 minutes), and snuggle up on the couch for a fun night with a great movie. 

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Rated: PG

Release Date: February 14, 2020

Director: Jeff Fowler

Stars: James Marsden, Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Tika Sumpter

Plot: A hedgehog with superpowers is on the run from people that want to use him for his powers

Trailer

Clint Says: Save some money and see a matinee

If you are a child of the 80's and 90's then Sonic The Hedgehog is a major character in your upbringing. That said, there were a lot of feelings about this movie long before its release date. Especially when the first trailer came out and the entire world revolted at the look of Sonic, forcing the director to make a public statement saying Sonic would be changed to look more like the original Sonic before the theatrical release. They did, and he does. 

As for the film, it is fun. It's not some great, comedic masterpiece, but it has several good laughs, a decently compelling plot, and it moves along at a quick and steady pace. I was in a theater full of kids and very few lost interest along the way. 

As with just about every film he's been in, Jim Carrey overacts every single line of his performance. It's funny, but it does get a bit old and tired by the end. Thankfully, the rest of the cast keeps the film on track. 

If you are looking for a fun outing with the family, this movie will satisfy. Kids and adults will be entertained. For the adults, it won't give you the nostalgia that you might be hoping for, but it's still entertaining enough.

LIKE A BOSS

Rated: R

Release Date: January 10, 2020

Director: Miguel Arteta

Stars: Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne, Salma Hayek

Plot: Two friends with a small beauty company have to fight for their rights when a major player tries to swindle them

Trailer

Clint Says: Wait for the digital release

If you are looking for a few good laughs, then who am I to try to stop you from seeing this movie? It will absolutely tickle your funny bone several times. There is no doubt that this is a comedy.

Now, if you are wanting to go see a GOOD comedy, well, this is the wrong place to look.

Yes, Tiffany Haddish and Rose Byrne have great chemistry, great comedic timing, and deliver a bunch of laughs, unfortunately, the script they had to use is just plain bad. I like to call these "find and replace" comedies. It's the exact same formula that we've all seen a thousand times, only the writer just does a find and replace with location, character names, and the money-making method.

Before you head to the theater, you should also know that this movie is extremely raunchy. It is filled with dirty jokes and innuendo. If that kind of thing is not your thing then you should go do another thing and avoid this thing completely.

While I wouldn't suggest spending money to see this in theaters, this is the kind of film that would be a fun night at home with your girl friends. It's not a great movie, but it is funny enough to give you an entertaining evening at home.

PLAYING WITH FIRE

Rated: PG

Release Date: November 8, 2019

Director: Andy Fickman

Stars: John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, Brianna Hildebrand

Plot: A no-nonsense fire chief finds himself having to figure out how to handle three precocious children

Trailer

Clint Says: Save some money and see a matinee

John Cena has quickly become one of Hollywood's top choices for comedies. And rightfully so. He is outstanding as the straight guy that finds himself in ridiculous situations. What is surprising is how well he pulls off the heartwarming and lovable acting requirements. He made this movie much better than it would have been with someone less talented.

The film isn't great, but it is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and it is entertaining for the whole family. My seven year old laughed hard several times and one time she laughed for three minutes straight. I thought she was going to pass out from lack of air.

The story is simple, the editing is terrible, but that all can be forgiven since it is so funny and keeps the kids entertained all the way through the movie.

This isn't the kind of film that kids will want to see again and again, but it is one that they will be happy they saw.

If you are looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend, this movie would probably be a fun choice.