Who would've thought.

Rating: 6/10 (19 August 2008)

There is no denying Seth Rogen is the new face of comedy over the last year and a half, but who would've thought that dramatic stand-out James Franco had so much comedic genius (I've never seen the TV show Freaks and Geeks), and for the case of this specific movie, was the funniest person in it. While that isn't exactly saying his performance was stellar, because the movie was ho-hum at best, it can be said for Franco is a pleasant surprise.
Only slightly better than Step Brothers this movie does not compare to 40-Year Old Virgin, Knocked-Up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall etc. I did not laugh as much as I did during Step Brothers, and one of the less laugh out loud comedies in recent memory. What was clear from this movie and perhaps where its charm lies (and the same can be said for the other movies previously mentioned, except Step Brothers). It never forces you to laugh, movies of comedic past Austin Powers, Borat, and other movies like that either you laugh and you think it's funny or you think it's stupid, it's very hit or miss. With this new breed of comedy they center it around a solid story and characters, so even if a gag or whatever doesn't make you laugh, there is always this charm or like for the story/character that you still like it anyways. Case and point: even though I laughed out loud during Step Brothers more, I can't help but give a slight edge in Pineapple Express(unfortunately IMDb does not do half stars).
As for actual movie logistics, Rogen plays a stoner in just about everything he's associated with and puts forth a similar performance to what he did in Knocked-Up. Franco is the "dopest dope" in this movie, as a completely convincing doped out Pot-dealer. With OK, supporting performance's from Gary Cole, and super milf Rosie Perez. While Danny R. McBride, absolutely drove me up the wall, I can't stand him, doesn't make me laugh and I'm worried we could have another Dane Cook on our hands (Worthless, crappy comic, who will get a career out of over the top garbage performances), the only way you'll find this guy funny is if your high.
Pros: James Franco is great. Rogen is solid, again. Story has charm, regardless of how much you laugh.
Cons: Didn't laugh out loud that much. Danny R. McBride needs to turn down the suck knob. I don't like pot, so it was partially doomed from the get go.
Overall: The best way to recommend this movie, is if you like pot. Immature college frat boys will no doubt flock to this movie regardless just because pot is a theme. Even if your not a fan of the chronic, you still might have a good time, but my diagnosis you might be better off waiting for another Rogen performance in Kevin Smith's Zack and Miri Make a Porno, which comes out later this year. Or go watch The Dark Knight again...