Julian RuncanHot Tub Time Machine: I'd Get In
April 8th 2010 09:24
Hot Tub Time Machine is far from perfect. The premise is great, the talent involved is remarkable, but there are many parts where the audience can't help but think about how much more could have been done with all of this potential. The movie is still enjoyable and the characters themselves even remind you not to take it too seriously, after all it is about a Hot Tub Time Machine.
Hot Tub Time Machine is about three friends who have grown apart as they have gotten older, but this whole time-traveling thing helps them realize the strength and importance of friendship. It's a coming-of-age story in reverse, and although the cast is so talented, some of them simply didn't suit their roles.
John Cusack delivers an uncharacteristically boring performance, and Clark Duke is shackled with the burden of driving the film's narrative, which leaves him as the character in charge of ruining the party. Chevy Chase's character is incredibly annoying, and the characters tell us he's supposed to be, but that doesn't change the fact that he's overused. Craig Robinson and Rob Corddry really steal the show, and although they don't stray too far from the characters they usually play, no one's complaining. The pair, along with a running gag involving Crispin Glover, are responsible for a great majority of the laughs the movie provides.
Director Steve Pink was a co-producer on Grosse Pointe Blank and High Fidelity, so he certainly has a familiar relationship with John Cusack, but this type of movie is simply doesn't play to either of their strengths. Someone like Todd Phillips who specializes in these types of movies about friendship and bonding would have likely gotten much more out of the material.
Although my friends were split on our enjoyment of this movie, we did all agree that it gave us an incredible urge to go out and have a good night with the guys. In this regard, I would say the movie certainly accomplished its goal.
7.0/10
| 48 |
| Vote |
Add To: 
subscribe to this blog
