Surprisingly pretty okay

Rating: 7/10 (19 April 2011)

Time and experience has made me loath to watch nearly any movie starring an SNL alumni. Yet every now and then one rises from the comedic swamp that is actually better than the rest of the stable. This is one of them. I avoided seeing this movie until now. After viewing it I was pleasantly surprised. I admit that I didn't expect much so I was quite ready to 'diss' this movie. And, indeed, there are places where you're not sure something was supposed to be funny or not, but the movie doesn't dwell. The pacing keeps it alive and interesting. It's good to see Richard Kiel again. Carl Weathers is a hoot with his wooden prosthetic hand and obviously longer arm. He should do more comedy. And Bob Barker!! A great and memorable inclusion. The only real disappointment was the rather abrupt ending. It didn't go off with a bang - it faded. Abraham Lincoln? Why? Why not. His sudden brief appearance for no reason is always funny. Bottomline: if you find the need to watch a movie from the line of SNL players - this is a good recommendation. I didn't kick myself afterward like I have with Will Ferrell flicks, etc.