Like Corn Flakes

Rating: 4/10 (27 June 2006)

Greetings again from the darkness. First of all, this movie is not as funny as it thinks it is, nor is it as dramatic as it pretends to be. The previews lead us to believe that this is a typical Adam Sandler adolescent comedy, but in fact, it is more in the vein of "Family Man" , "Mr Destiny" and "It's A Wonderful Life". Of course, it is definitely not in the class of the latter, but it does share some common elements with all three.
Director Frank Coraci (seen briefly as a male nurse) should thank Mr. Sandler daily since his money makers as a director have been "The Wedding Singer" and "The Waterboy". Sandler doesn't seem to put much into his performance, but Kate Beckinsale and Christopher Walken at least seem to have a little fun. Then there is David Hasselhoff enjoying the spotlight again and Jennifer Coolidge is always a hoot.
The most interesting sidebar on this film is the decision to cast some kids of stars. Lorraine Nicholson (Jack's daughter) plays Samantha as a 14 yr old. Katie Cassidy (David's daughter) plays Samantha as a young adult. And best of all, Jake Hoffman (Dustin's son) plays Ben as a young architect running the business. An unusual casting stunt that adds a touch of interest where there is very little.
Christopher Walken will make you chuckle a couple of times and the heartstrings are pulled pretty hard on the whole issue of family vs. work, but for the most part, this movie struggles in both comedy and drama. Sandler fans will be disappointed in his performance, but the film should have a nice life on cable and DVD.