152 reviews
Absolutely Nuts
A group of aliens decide to put the fate of the world in the hands of one random guy by giving him the power to make anything happen as a test towards predicting the values of humanity.
British writer/director Terry Jones, known for his work with the hilarious Monty Python comedy group, returns with his first feature film in 19 years for Absolutely Anything, and it's absolutely perfect absurdity. From a hilarious talking dog to a series of unpredictable gags ranging from walking turds to the accidental annihilation of an entire classroom of kids, the film's unpredictable humor is completely nuts. But like a fine mix of chocolate-covered nuts, Jones makes sure none of the jokes ever become mean-spirited, ensuring the film maintains some refined substance through its mostly lighthearted antics. Just don't expect the same style of humor seen in his '70s comedic masterpiece Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Now I won't try and bring your hopes up with empty promises, considering this flick is far from being award-worthy. Any forms of deep character development or profound script elements are instead replaced with an extra dose of silly gags, but at least they're funny enough to justify their existence. Full of unexpected wit that cleverly mixes its comedic styles, Absolutely Anything had me laughing from start to finish. Obviously Simon Pegg deserves some recognition for this, considering he's the one that allowed the far-fetched situations come to life with impeccable comedic timing. The best parts are, of course, the trial and error associated with Pegg trying to figure out how to properly use his powers without having them hilariously backfire in his face. What will surprise audiences the most, however, is the fantastic voice work brought to Pegg's lovably annoying pet dog by none other than the late legend himself, Robin Williams. It's a little bittersweet considering it's his final roll, but it certainly comes with great pleasure to say it's a memorable one.
Thankfully I never bothered checking out the film's Rotten Tomatoes rating before watching it, because it's exceptionally low 8% critic approval might have persuaded me not to give it a chance. How the undeniably pointless Stan-Helsing or Kevin Smith's unfunny detective comedy Cop Out managed to get higher critic approval scores is beyond me. Maybe it's time people adjust the tracking on their VCRs and take the time to actually watch things clearly. Wait People don't watch VHS tapes anymore? Oh Well I guess we can't really blame the picture quality now can we? Hum Perhaps my taste in movies has just relinquished in quality over the years? Or maybe my sense of humor just belongs in a Saturday morning cartoon? Either way, I'd like to think I'm not the crazy one.
British writer/director Terry Jones, known for his work with the hilarious Monty Python comedy group, returns with his first feature film in 19 years for Absolutely Anything, and it's absolutely perfect absurdity. From a hilarious talking dog to a series of unpredictable gags ranging from walking turds to the accidental annihilation of an entire classroom of kids, the film's unpredictable humor is completely nuts. But like a fine mix of chocolate-covered nuts, Jones makes sure none of the jokes ever become mean-spirited, ensuring the film maintains some refined substance through its mostly lighthearted antics. Just don't expect the same style of humor seen in his '70s comedic masterpiece Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Now I won't try and bring your hopes up with empty promises, considering this flick is far from being award-worthy. Any forms of deep character development or profound script elements are instead replaced with an extra dose of silly gags, but at least they're funny enough to justify their existence. Full of unexpected wit that cleverly mixes its comedic styles, Absolutely Anything had me laughing from start to finish. Obviously Simon Pegg deserves some recognition for this, considering he's the one that allowed the far-fetched situations come to life with impeccable comedic timing. The best parts are, of course, the trial and error associated with Pegg trying to figure out how to properly use his powers without having them hilariously backfire in his face. What will surprise audiences the most, however, is the fantastic voice work brought to Pegg's lovably annoying pet dog by none other than the late legend himself, Robin Williams. It's a little bittersweet considering it's his final roll, but it certainly comes with great pleasure to say it's a memorable one.
Thankfully I never bothered checking out the film's Rotten Tomatoes rating before watching it, because it's exceptionally low 8% critic approval might have persuaded me not to give it a chance. How the undeniably pointless Stan-Helsing or Kevin Smith's unfunny detective comedy Cop Out managed to get higher critic approval scores is beyond me. Maybe it's time people adjust the tracking on their VCRs and take the time to actually watch things clearly. Wait People don't watch VHS tapes anymore? Oh Well I guess we can't really blame the picture quality now can we? Hum Perhaps my taste in movies has just relinquished in quality over the years? Or maybe my sense of humor just belongs in a Saturday morning cartoon? Either way, I'd like to think I'm not the crazy one.
Perfectly enjoyable film, just not outstanding or remarkable
Absolutely Anything is a funny enough light comedy that seems better thanks to its notorious cast but unfortunately is a bit subdued to 'wow'.
Simon Pegg plays Neil Clarke, an unassuming teacher who has a crush on his neighbor and hates his job and boss. Little does he know that aliens are circling the planet, ready to put it to the test. One lucky human gets the power to do absolutely anything, and if they use the power for good then great, if they use it for bad, well then the aliens blow up the planet. Seems fair enough.
For those Jim Carrey fans out there, the idea behind Absolutely Anything is strikingly similar to 2003's Bruce Almighty. But unlike the Americans, the Brits are far more restrained in their use of absolute power and complete command of the universe. Neil just wants the simple things, to mess with his friends and maybe improve his work and body sitch. In fact, the ways in which Neil uses his complete power is almost too restrained and basically ends up making the film feel like a missed opportunity.
There are several decisions the producers made that really optimized the film, like getting the Monty Python gang to voice the aliens and Robin Williams to voice Neil's pet dog Dennis. Between their comedy chops and Simon Pegg, it seems impossible for this film to be bland, but it is. It seems as though the film strictly follows the script, leaving very little improvisational wiggle room which is where all the aforementioned talents shine. The comedy of Absolutely Anything is fine, entertaining and delightful, but not memorable or laugh- out- loud funny either.
Ultimately, Absolutely Anything suffers from a lack of creativity and originality in its comedy. It is amusing but average, and in the sea of films released annually, you won't even give it a second thought.
Please check out our website for reviews of all the recent releases.
Simon Pegg plays Neil Clarke, an unassuming teacher who has a crush on his neighbor and hates his job and boss. Little does he know that aliens are circling the planet, ready to put it to the test. One lucky human gets the power to do absolutely anything, and if they use the power for good then great, if they use it for bad, well then the aliens blow up the planet. Seems fair enough.
For those Jim Carrey fans out there, the idea behind Absolutely Anything is strikingly similar to 2003's Bruce Almighty. But unlike the Americans, the Brits are far more restrained in their use of absolute power and complete command of the universe. Neil just wants the simple things, to mess with his friends and maybe improve his work and body sitch. In fact, the ways in which Neil uses his complete power is almost too restrained and basically ends up making the film feel like a missed opportunity.
There are several decisions the producers made that really optimized the film, like getting the Monty Python gang to voice the aliens and Robin Williams to voice Neil's pet dog Dennis. Between their comedy chops and Simon Pegg, it seems impossible for this film to be bland, but it is. It seems as though the film strictly follows the script, leaving very little improvisational wiggle room which is where all the aforementioned talents shine. The comedy of Absolutely Anything is fine, entertaining and delightful, but not memorable or laugh- out- loud funny either.
Ultimately, Absolutely Anything suffers from a lack of creativity and originality in its comedy. It is amusing but average, and in the sea of films released annually, you won't even give it a second thought.
Please check out our website for reviews of all the recent releases.
- ArchonCinemaReviews
- Nov 18, 2015
- Permalink
Little story about almighty power, when phrased correctly
The absolute power of wish fulfillment has been connected to many beings, genie and god among others, but now even aliens can make one's wish come true. Absolutely Anything is a simple film blessed with nifty premise and charming charismatic lead in Simon Pegg. It's a light casual watch that surprisingly heartwarming and incredibly witty beyond the occasional quirky display, even though the premise doesn't have much depth.
Neil (Simon Pegg) is an ordinary teacher who has been given ultimate power by a group of aliens for the purpose of judging the entire earth. The plot and cast are rather familiar, including the love interest by Kate Beckinsale along with the usual best friend and silly talking dog. It's pretty hard to fail on delivering a talking dog, especially voiced by Robin Williams.
First and foremost, the humor is fun and fairly amusing. The script offers some ridiculous situations, often presenting these scenes for Simon Pegg to shine, and that he does. His character is utterly identifiable, wishing assortments of petty stuffs and ending up with stupid mistakes by simple poor choice of words. Some of these might feel overdone and the movie just goes for the boundary of safe route.
Pegg also seems like able to crate chemistry with the cast, and everyone is quite likable, aside from a few over-the-top moments for a couple of them. The movie doesn't venture into deep thought about absolute power or the logic of bending reality, it merely a mild enjoyment with nice characters, most of whom work in platonic relationship. One extra credit for the presentation is how the visual looks sophisticated, it uses the scenery of England and the special effects fairly well.
Absolutely Anything is a much humbler film than the title suggests, it provides ample of light entertainment with a commendable performance by Simon Pegg even if the premise feels outdated towards the end. Plus, having Robin Williams again, even in doggy form is a nice treat.
Neil (Simon Pegg) is an ordinary teacher who has been given ultimate power by a group of aliens for the purpose of judging the entire earth. The plot and cast are rather familiar, including the love interest by Kate Beckinsale along with the usual best friend and silly talking dog. It's pretty hard to fail on delivering a talking dog, especially voiced by Robin Williams.
First and foremost, the humor is fun and fairly amusing. The script offers some ridiculous situations, often presenting these scenes for Simon Pegg to shine, and that he does. His character is utterly identifiable, wishing assortments of petty stuffs and ending up with stupid mistakes by simple poor choice of words. Some of these might feel overdone and the movie just goes for the boundary of safe route.
Pegg also seems like able to crate chemistry with the cast, and everyone is quite likable, aside from a few over-the-top moments for a couple of them. The movie doesn't venture into deep thought about absolute power or the logic of bending reality, it merely a mild enjoyment with nice characters, most of whom work in platonic relationship. One extra credit for the presentation is how the visual looks sophisticated, it uses the scenery of England and the special effects fairly well.
Absolutely Anything is a much humbler film than the title suggests, it provides ample of light entertainment with a commendable performance by Simon Pegg even if the premise feels outdated towards the end. Plus, having Robin Williams again, even in doggy form is a nice treat.
- quincytheodore
- Dec 8, 2015
- Permalink
Unique comedy
Decent British comedy but not a classic
- Safcinexile
- Aug 22, 2015
- Permalink
A diverting time passer...from which I guess I expected too much.
When I first read about "Absolutely Anything" on IMDB, I was excited to see it. After all, it was directed by the late Terry Jones....and I adore almost all the post-Monty Python stuff he's done. His documentaries have been brilliant and I longed to see him direct yet again...plus he co-wrote the film. And, I was excited to see that five of the old Python actors were in the film. Ultimately, however, this all led to disappointment as most of the Pythoners were NOT physically in the film but just provided voices for some goofy aliens. And, while there is a quick cameo of Jones himself...it was just too quick. Plus, and I know this will sound awful, Jones turned out to be in horrible health when he made the film and he was suffering from rather severe Dementia. I have no idea how much this affected the movie...but surely it did.
The story itself is a silly thing where Neil (Simon Pegg) is suddenly given god-like powers in order for these aliens to test the human race. And, if he does poorly and acts selfishly, then the entire planet is slated for destruction. Naturally, Neil is dumb and does lots of dumb things with the powers but ultimately makes a great decision at the end.
In many ways, the film is like combining the old "Twilight Zone" episode "Mr. Dingle the Strong" (where Burgess Meredith is given Herculean physical power) and "Evan Almighty". The film IS enjoyable and it kept my interest...unfortunately, it also was nothing more than this and the Python reunion (of sorts...and without the deceased Graham Chapman) was a bust. Watchable and worth seeing...provided your expectations are not huge.
By the way, in a weird case of art NOT imitating life, there is one point where Neil's dog (voiced by Robin Williams) saves someone from committing suicide. Considering Williams himself committed suicide and the film came out well after this, it seem in questionable taste to have this scene.
The story itself is a silly thing where Neil (Simon Pegg) is suddenly given god-like powers in order for these aliens to test the human race. And, if he does poorly and acts selfishly, then the entire planet is slated for destruction. Naturally, Neil is dumb and does lots of dumb things with the powers but ultimately makes a great decision at the end.
In many ways, the film is like combining the old "Twilight Zone" episode "Mr. Dingle the Strong" (where Burgess Meredith is given Herculean physical power) and "Evan Almighty". The film IS enjoyable and it kept my interest...unfortunately, it also was nothing more than this and the Python reunion (of sorts...and without the deceased Graham Chapman) was a bust. Watchable and worth seeing...provided your expectations are not huge.
By the way, in a weird case of art NOT imitating life, there is one point where Neil's dog (voiced by Robin Williams) saves someone from committing suicide. Considering Williams himself committed suicide and the film came out well after this, it seem in questionable taste to have this scene.
- planktonrules
- Aug 5, 2018
- Permalink
Everything is perfect to its own place, By pressurizes you can't make yourself happy
- saykat-25166
- Mar 16, 2020
- Permalink
Harmless fun
Watching the trailer gives you a pretty good idea how this film is going to turn out and thats not necessarily a bad thing. This movie set out to be a average comedy about a man who gets the power to wish anything. And this is the core of the movie. Simon Pegg is likable as always and serves as a good hearted doofus who gains extraordinary powers. The jokes are funny, without being too clever or too cheesy. The love story is serviceable without being boring and Rob Riggle who plays a jealous ex is pretty funny. This film doesn't revolutionize anything but its harmless fun. I enjoyed it and it was nice to hear Robin Williams once more who was pretty funny in the film, but I won't re watch it soon.
- charleswjoke
- Nov 11, 2015
- Permalink
An unacknowledged remake of The Man Who Could Work Miracles.
It's one of those rare instances of the remake being better than the original, but not by enough to justify actually doing it. The ancient gods are aliens and the travails of the man are different but the central conceit is the same, humanity being tried on the actions of one man being given magical powers. The producers owe the H. G. Wells estate and/or the original production company some licensing fees.
They also threw in some Monkey's Fist elements. At least in this case we're saved the preachiness of H. G. Wells and the ending was different than the original.
As long as they're doing pointless remakes of movies with Roland Young, Simon Pegg is probably around the right age to play Topper.
They also threw in some Monkey's Fist elements. At least in this case we're saved the preachiness of H. G. Wells and the ending was different than the original.
As long as they're doing pointless remakes of movies with Roland Young, Simon Pegg is probably around the right age to play Topper.
- ferulebezel
- May 15, 2022
- Permalink
Absolutely fine.......
- FlashCallahan
- Dec 4, 2015
- Permalink
Absolutely disappointing
While I don't think it's "One of the worst movies ever made", or "appalling", as some critics have said. But I must say that I was really disappointed with Absolutely Anything, because I had such high hopes for this movie to be great just by the cast behind the movie and the director, but it didn't reach my expectations has I wanted. What's more sad is that this is the very last Robin Williams performance (He voices the dog in the movie).
Not once did I laugh or even smile. It was very predictable and not that original when it comes to the story. Simon Pegg dose make a likable main character and Robin Williams dose a great job voicing the dog named "Dennis". But what's more crushing is that The Monty Python crew were involved in making this movie, because they wrote it, stared in it and one of them directed it.
Overall Absolutely Anything isn't awful, but nowhere near great or good.
Not once did I laugh or even smile. It was very predictable and not that original when it comes to the story. Simon Pegg dose make a likable main character and Robin Williams dose a great job voicing the dog named "Dennis". But what's more crushing is that The Monty Python crew were involved in making this movie, because they wrote it, stared in it and one of them directed it.
Overall Absolutely Anything isn't awful, but nowhere near great or good.
- MattBrady099
- Dec 3, 2015
- Permalink
A simple, silly, but funny and enjoyable family movie.
What should I start with ? Oh, yes, I don't really get the mediocre score and reviews for this movie. Yeah, it's not another Holymollywood show (thank heavens!), it's not amazing in any way, but it does great at being a simple, enjoyable and funny movie to watch with your family. Both Simon Pegg and Kate are lovely to watch here.
You can just sit, relax and have a fun time. It clearly doesn't try to be smart or serious, people should understand this. There's also a tiny but nice message in it, that once understood, makes a better image of it all. If you enjoyed "Hector and the search for happiness", you should give this one a try. We need more movies like this!
You can just sit, relax and have a fun time. It clearly doesn't try to be smart or serious, people should understand this. There's also a tiny but nice message in it, that once understood, makes a better image of it all. If you enjoyed "Hector and the search for happiness", you should give this one a try. We need more movies like this!
- Alexlionfire
- Dec 3, 2015
- Permalink
Some very weak areas
So much potential wasted
A forgettable comedy with a few laughs
This film tells the story of a teacher who suddenly finds himself having the power of making absolutely anything come true. He uses his power to make his life better, but it turns out that great powers come with great burden and responsibilities as well.
Simon Pegg's character unfortunately does not quite know how to use his new almighty power, and bumps into a lot of mistakes. The plot could have been entertaining, but I think the potential for a good comedy is not fully capitalised. The American soldier is quite funny, Kate Beckinsale as the love interest is engaging, but the alien subplot is quite ridiculous. I would rather the aliens have nothing to do with this plot! Otherwise, "Absolutely Anything" is a plain film with some laughs, but nothing very memorable.
Simon Pegg's character unfortunately does not quite know how to use his new almighty power, and bumps into a lot of mistakes. The plot could have been entertaining, but I think the potential for a good comedy is not fully capitalised. The American soldier is quite funny, Kate Beckinsale as the love interest is engaging, but the alien subplot is quite ridiculous. I would rather the aliens have nothing to do with this plot! Otherwise, "Absolutely Anything" is a plain film with some laughs, but nothing very memorable.
Not that great, just okay to watch once
I like to watch a comedy in the afternoon, cozy in the couch, nothing to worry about and relaxed. When I saw that the crew of Monty Python was in it I thought I would get some of their absurd but hilarious humour. Well "in it" is a big word, because you only hear their voices, and the writer and director is also one of them (Terry Jones). But I was disappointed because there was no such humour in the movie. It still is a comedy but nothing to be excited about. It started really promising but the further you got in the story the script would get dumber. I didn't laugh a lot and as far as I know that's what it's all about in a comedy. It wasn't that bad either, just an average movie, good to watch once and then forget about it.
- deloudelouvain
- Dec 29, 2015
- Permalink
CAN I HAVE IT IN WHITE
- nogodnomasters
- Jul 4, 2018
- Permalink
Enjoy it for what it is..
Simon Pegg has had 2 great films on his schedule this year with Mission Impossible Rogue Nation and Man Up. From the trailer this film looked very good. A British Bruce Almighty featuring Monty Python as aliens? Yeah safe to say i was on board. Whilst this film falls flat in many places and doesn't satisfy as much as its trailer i had fun with Absolutely Anything.
The story follows an average school teacher called Neil Clarke, played by Simon Pegg. Out of nowhere some eccentric aliens played brilliantly by the Python cast give him the power to do whatever he wants. If he succeeds in doing good they will spare the earth from destruction. Neil decides to use these powers to get the hot woman from downstairs along with help from his dog who he gives the power to talk. Robin Williams voices Neil's dog Dennis in what is his final role. It was nice to get to see the last project Williams worked on, Absolutely Anything doesn't give us the perfect goodbye to the screen legend, but seeing him in the end credits in person was emotional and put a smile on my face to see him joking and happy.
The film does have flaws. As i mentioned the aliens just appear from nowhere, what really didn't work for me though was the editing between their story and Neil's. You can tell Terry Jones directed this film because he uses the trick of cutting between the scenarios in a quirky way. Whilst this works with Monty Python, in a feature film with a plot such as this it felt weird and out of place. The story with Rob Riggle's character also wasn't needed. It made the film seem much longer than it was and the film should really have focused on the story of Neil and Kate Beckinsale's character. The real relationship to look out for though is of course Neil and Dennis. Williams and Pegg played off of each other very well and Robin Williams in particular stole every scene he appeared in which was great.
Overall Absolutely Anything isn't a great movie, but with a simple plot and a few laughs here and there i will say it is worth giving it a watch. Eddie Izzard has a small role which again was hilarious and gave him the power to steal his scenes as much as Williams. I feel with better editing and more of a focus on the main plot the film could have been better. I loved hearing the Python cast back for a reunion, but i honestly would have preferred to have just seen another Python film. Simon Pegg really keeps this film together with his likability so overall i give Absolutely Anything a 6.5/10
The story follows an average school teacher called Neil Clarke, played by Simon Pegg. Out of nowhere some eccentric aliens played brilliantly by the Python cast give him the power to do whatever he wants. If he succeeds in doing good they will spare the earth from destruction. Neil decides to use these powers to get the hot woman from downstairs along with help from his dog who he gives the power to talk. Robin Williams voices Neil's dog Dennis in what is his final role. It was nice to get to see the last project Williams worked on, Absolutely Anything doesn't give us the perfect goodbye to the screen legend, but seeing him in the end credits in person was emotional and put a smile on my face to see him joking and happy.
The film does have flaws. As i mentioned the aliens just appear from nowhere, what really didn't work for me though was the editing between their story and Neil's. You can tell Terry Jones directed this film because he uses the trick of cutting between the scenarios in a quirky way. Whilst this works with Monty Python, in a feature film with a plot such as this it felt weird and out of place. The story with Rob Riggle's character also wasn't needed. It made the film seem much longer than it was and the film should really have focused on the story of Neil and Kate Beckinsale's character. The real relationship to look out for though is of course Neil and Dennis. Williams and Pegg played off of each other very well and Robin Williams in particular stole every scene he appeared in which was great.
Overall Absolutely Anything isn't a great movie, but with a simple plot and a few laughs here and there i will say it is worth giving it a watch. Eddie Izzard has a small role which again was hilarious and gave him the power to steal his scenes as much as Williams. I feel with better editing and more of a focus on the main plot the film could have been better. I loved hearing the Python cast back for a reunion, but i honestly would have preferred to have just seen another Python film. Simon Pegg really keeps this film together with his likability so overall i give Absolutely Anything a 6.5/10
- kieranbattams
- Aug 28, 2015
- Permalink
Completely ridiculous, and that's what makes it good...
What Could Have Been....
I was pulled into this movie for its all-star cast and its premise. Absolutely anything could happen. With Simon Pegg, Eddie Izzard, the final cast role of Robin Williams, the Monty Python crew and Terry Jones at the helm, what could go wrong? The answer: absolutely everything.
To begin, the casting of male/female actors makes the viewer feel as though they are living in a world of attractive females and mediocre looking men. I guess that's fine. It worked for Monty Python. Not to suggest there is a better way to cast, however, it all felt pretty glaringly unrealistic to me.
About the comedic elements, although there were some unique laughs brought on by the originality of the screenplay, the whole movie was hard to watch. The lengths at which the CGI animation and set design went to accommodate the silliness of the story was entertaining, but it could hardly satiate the philosophical implications that the narrative proposes. As a viewer, you feel as though you are watching a writer getting away with settling on well-polished, sub-par ideas. Arguably, the bar is set high with a movie featuring a protagonist that can do anything, but still, blehhhhh.....
This film calls to a thinking audience. Yet, any intelligent person will soon find themselves bored with this movie for one reason or another. Although it is very unique, like any over-budgeted action movie, I was left wondering who gave them the money to make this crap happen?
The movie does brush on ethics, morality, the limitations of the human condition and the ramifications of having power over others, but so does Spiderman.... so watch that instead.
To begin, the casting of male/female actors makes the viewer feel as though they are living in a world of attractive females and mediocre looking men. I guess that's fine. It worked for Monty Python. Not to suggest there is a better way to cast, however, it all felt pretty glaringly unrealistic to me.
About the comedic elements, although there were some unique laughs brought on by the originality of the screenplay, the whole movie was hard to watch. The lengths at which the CGI animation and set design went to accommodate the silliness of the story was entertaining, but it could hardly satiate the philosophical implications that the narrative proposes. As a viewer, you feel as though you are watching a writer getting away with settling on well-polished, sub-par ideas. Arguably, the bar is set high with a movie featuring a protagonist that can do anything, but still, blehhhhh.....
This film calls to a thinking audience. Yet, any intelligent person will soon find themselves bored with this movie for one reason or another. Although it is very unique, like any over-budgeted action movie, I was left wondering who gave them the money to make this crap happen?
The movie does brush on ethics, morality, the limitations of the human condition and the ramifications of having power over others, but so does Spiderman.... so watch that instead.
- dillonkoopmans
- Feb 8, 2016
- Permalink
'Biscuits!! They're in the cupboard, for crying out loud.'
A very light hearted and delightfully silly comedy with an all star cast. Neil Clarke (Simon Pegg) is an English teacher who struggles with his job and is in love with his neighbour Catherine (Kate Beckinsale). A group of five aliens (voiced splendidly by the remaining Pythons at the time!) bestow the power to do absolutely anything by random to Neil in an experiment to see if the human species can determine the difference between good and evil. What ensues is relentlessly fun and occasionally really funny! Upon watching it again, it loses some laughs on more watches strangely and feels more discombobulated in not an entirely satisfying way. Nevertheless, there are still hilarious sequences, a central romance that you invest in and a great cast bringing their all. I particularly loved Robin Williams lending his voice to Neil's dog Dennis which provided a beautiful insight into the mind of a dog! Beckinsale is enormously likeable and a treat to watch on screen and Eddie Izzard appears in a supporting role as the school headmaster and the things that Neil makes him do is really funny. It's a pretty good outing for Director Terry Jones and this turned out to be his swan song, leaving the world with a jolly spirit and plenty of giggles to look back on
- jamiedarlow-37510
- Feb 12, 2020
- Permalink
Horrendously unfunny
"Bruce Almighty" meets "Bedazzled" Absolutely hilarious
Anyone who rated this less than a 5 has no sense of humor. I don't know what the heck they were expecting to see but whatever it was it was not ab out this funny flick.
Simon Pegg, a British staple in comedic endeavors, is perfectly cast as the poor shlub who is given the power to have anything he wishes just by saying it and waving his hand. The kicker is that he only has the power for 24 hours and that his wishes don't go exactly as planned.
The maxim, "Be careful what you wish for," could be the theme of this funny flick - especially if you are used to speaking literally. The power is granted to Pegg by a bunch of the weirdest assortment of aliens this side of the Bar Scene in Star Wars who travel from galaxy to galaxy looking for species worthy of joining their fraternity of planets.
I liked this film so much that I watched it a second time with my daughter. You'll love it.
Simon Pegg, a British staple in comedic endeavors, is perfectly cast as the poor shlub who is given the power to have anything he wishes just by saying it and waving his hand. The kicker is that he only has the power for 24 hours and that his wishes don't go exactly as planned.
The maxim, "Be careful what you wish for," could be the theme of this funny flick - especially if you are used to speaking literally. The power is granted to Pegg by a bunch of the weirdest assortment of aliens this side of the Bar Scene in Star Wars who travel from galaxy to galaxy looking for species worthy of joining their fraternity of planets.
I liked this film so much that I watched it a second time with my daughter. You'll love it.
Entertaining Comedy with Robin Williams's Last Voice-Over Appearance
14 November 2017. In the same vein as its previous incarnations, Bruce Almighty (2003) with Jim Carrey and Oh, God! (1977) with John Denver, Simon Pegg gets his chance at absolute power, but with the help this time of extraterrestrial superior beings in this romantic comedy. There are some really funny moments in this comedy yet the poignant, emotive bite doesn't quite as sting as much as possible. Robin Williams appears in voice over as the dog, in his very last movie to be released with his passing in 2014. Kate Beckinsale remains in great form from her Serendipity (2001) days while becoming the face of the Underworld franchise. Overall, this movie is an enjoyable entertaining experience without the deeper, richer moments that it was capable of.
Wasted opportunity. Bruce Almighty did it better
The concept of this movie was interesting and very good. The idea was promising
But the movie was rarher cliche and genetic.
The movie has the premise of a man that can do anything in the world with "magic" but he doesn't really do that much with these powers. Hes pretty singleminded and doesnt do anything great with his powers. whatever lesson the movie had is wasted on silly moments with his neighbor and his dog.
Kate Bekinsale shows up as a love interest but she doesnt do much either besides being the love interest.
The aliens in the movie are pretty annoying and too unsympatetic for the type of movie and the type of lesson the movie was trying to tell.
The movie is not funny, has unlikable characters and anything it was trying to telm was made a lot better by Bruce Almighty.
- reaseltbim
- Nov 29, 2019
- Permalink