Surprisingly Entertaining

Rating: 7/10 (3 July 2004)

As I scanned the movie listings the other day perusing the newest titles, my selection seemed limited. Finally, my friend and I concluded that we would see Dodgeball in the tradition of a thought-free, relaxing evening. As we entered the movie theater, my expectations for this movie were nothing short of average. I supposed I would laugh occasionally, while easily following a basic, juvenilisitc comedy-driven plot.
Only half of my hypothesis was accurate. While the basic innerworkings of the movie were no more complicated than those of Tommy Boy, I found myself laughing with such rigor at times that I had to tear my eyes from the screen in an effort to slow my laughter and gulp down some oxygen. Even while serious, intentionally unfunny scenes took place, I sat staring eagerly at the screen with that oblivious, airheaded expression you sometimes catch on a dog when you're scratching him behind the ears.
I can say without hesitation that the funniest aspect of this movie is Ben Stiller's character, White Goodman. His mannerisms, gestures, and greatest of all, comebacks, are a marvel in themselves. His lines, while funny simply by nature, are expanded into humor bombshells as one line after the next hits you right in the funny bone.
I recommend this movie not only to anyone under the age of 18, for obvious reasons, but to adults alike for its over-the-top style and in-your-face attitude. With more cameos than you can count, I guarantee a night filled with laughter and enjoyment. Be sure to stick around for the credits. Trust me.
*** out of ****