FILM FREAK: 3 buckets
MOVIE GEEK'S REVIEW:
This is pure slapstick comedy at its finest. I didn't know they made films like this anymore.
Kevin James (from 'King of Queens' fame) brings the laughter, and the pain, as the inept mall security officer Paul Blart.
He is devoted to keeping crime and mischief out of the New Jersey shopping center where he works, even if he isn't allowed to wear a gun.
But when a band of hi-tech thieves decide to take over the mall and take Paul's loved ones hostage, he has to use all of his training to save them.
I'm still amazed that Kevin James (who also co-wrote) made a film that is just as crazy and wild as any R-rated comedy. You will not hear any f-bombs or any flatulence jokes, which is a welcomed breath of fresh air.
I'm glad that the comic found a way to be knee-slapping funny without degrading himself to be the pun of those types of jokes.
If you think about it, that point makes total sense, as his stand-up routines for the most part are G-rated.
The movie doesn't have the most interesting storyline, but it does the job. Obviously the show here is James and he is ability to showcase the unbalance of an average American fat man.
One thing I did like about the movie is the tonal shift from being a sitcom in the first half to a little action farce in the final half hour.
It's interesting to see how the character can be perceived in a different light depending on the situation (and the studio lighting).
From this, Kevin James proves he can go from being the ultimate bumbling teddy bear, to a dirtied up action charged grizzly.
3 buckets.
FILM FREAK'S REVIEW:
Single Dad Paul Blart aspires to have a career in law enforcement. He has but one thing holding him back from becoming a state trooper, that being hypoglycemia.
He has been trying for 10 years to break into law enforcement with his mother and daughter supporting him.
Until he fulfills his dream and becomes a state trooper, the next best thing for him is being a Mall Cop. When the mall comes under siege by a well organized group of thieves, it's Paul Blart alone that can stop them.
It's about time Kevin James (Paul Blart) had a lead role.
I think he is an extremely funny talented actor, but I was skeptical of him doing anything but supporting roles.
This movie is funny throughout and the amazing thing is that the movie is rated PG which is unheard of.
There were so many instances I caught myself and others laughing aloud.
Only a portion of the comedy was physical comedy, the other moments just worked in their own special way.
I hope that Kevin James finds more leading roles like this one because I appreciate the laughter he delivered.
A good comparison would be a lighter version of 'Die Hard'.
3 buckets.
