Category: Much more enjoyable than expected.

Rating: 7/10 (31 March 2016)

This was really fun to watch. Surprisingly so. I was afraid to see yet another movie with Kevin James playing a bumbling, lovable idiot with a number of cringy jokes, but they definitely toned down that element for this movie. And it certainly worked for me.
To get the obvious points out of the way: Yes, this is a pretty generic underdog/feel-good story with a rather far-fetched plot (teacher turns UFC fighter) and a predictable ending. However, they really executed it well. For a start, the cast really carries this movie and makes up for the generic elements of the plot. All the actors seem to be enjoying themselves and it shows. Henry Winkler as the music teacher is fantastic and MMA legend Bas Rutten is a comic revelation on screen, providing a lot of comic relief and a generally positive aura in every scene. In addition, long-term UFC fan Kevin James took the time to make sure that they made this unlikely underdog story as realistic as possible, with several mixed martial artists being consulted for this movie and acting in cameos. Also, while the plot is far-fetched, they still tried to make sure that the teacher's journey doesn't look too easy. After all, you can't just waltz into professional MMA fighting like this. But with a bit of suspension of disbelief the movie works great.
This movie surely won't earn much praise from serious film critics, but I found it really enjoyable for what it is and, thanks to the entertaining cast, I'd happily watch it again soon.