Mindless Entertainment

Rating: Null/10 (21 September 2010)

I suppose in many ways Adam Sandler has something of an advantage over other film comedians because nobody goes into a Sandler movie expecting a bellyful of laughs, so they're not particularly disappointed when they receive exactly what they expect. Perhaps that is why this average comedy – which appears to have been sponsored by Subway – from the so-called funny man enjoys quite a high rating on this site.
Sandler plays the title character, an aspiring ice hockey player whose enthusiasm for the sport vastly outweighs his ability. Shortly after failing once again to win a trial with his local ice hockey team he discovers that his Grannie has been evicted from her home for tax evasion and must raise $275,000 if she wants to get it back. Rather fortuitously, Happy accidentally learns that he has a rare talent for golf and determines to win the house back for Grandma.
Yeah, doesn't sound too great, does it? And the truth is it isn't a great film, but Sandler keeps the annoyance quotient on low so that his character comes across as quite likable despite some rather obvious anger management issues. Many other reviewers identify the fight that breaks out between Sandler and his celebrity partner as the highlight of the film, but as the guy is unknown in Britain much of the humour from that scene is lost. Fortunately, the rather lovely Julie Bowen is on hand to provide some entertainment for the eyes when the humour levels drop, and Christopher McDonald as Happy's hotshot golfing nemesis puts in an enjoyable performance.
I don't think this one will last long in anybody's memory, but it's entertaining enough in a mindless kind of way.