Tweaking the formula helps make this film better

Rating: 7/10 (30 December 2009)

Every year, Hollywood churns out an epic. Something that it boast will forever change culture, and the way we look at movies, and then it also makes films like the Benchwarmers.
The film does what it needs to do, and that's entertain. Rob Schnieder, smartly moving away from terrible films like the Hot Chick and Animal, is likable as Gus, a former sandlot star who wants his friends, Richie (David Spade) and Clark (Jon Heder)to have that same experience. At the same time, he uses that show some of the mean spirited little leaguers a thing or two about picking on those smaller and less athletic then them.
What happens is a chance practice game against a championship little league team, leads to a tour sponsored by a billionaire, played to great comic effect by Jon Lovitz.
There is some twists and turns, and it's discovered that Gus himself was once someone who picked on and made fun of those different. Gus finds himself kicked off the Benchwarmers baseball team.
AFter the usual mending of the fences, the climax of the film finds Gus, Richie, and Clark sitting out, while pint sized misfits take their place. Playing the same championship team from before, the little misfits are sounding defeated. However, the other little leaguers are impressed on how their less talented counterparts play for the fun of the game, and nothing else.
As the more talented group of little leaguers are set for a shut out, they decide to revolt. What happens is comical, as the misfits celebrate their lone run, and the fact they weren't shut out.
This is actually a nice enjoyable little film that has some funny moments. And yes, there are moments where the comedy falls flat. However, it's great to see the formula film handled a little differently, with an ending that really helps set it apart from it's counter parts. Not a truly great film, but is good enough to be a great way to pass the time.