Another unique, but still generic niche piece benefits from musical context

Rating: 6/10 (21 December 2007)

Although comedic ringleader Judd Apatow keeps inching further and further away from doing what he does best, opting instead to propel his line of talent into a brand name of sorts, he does show up now and again with some of the better gags (in a mostly underwhelming and self-conscious screenplay) throughout the rock-bio, high concept prank Walk Hard. Some of the music movie jabs may rub fans the wrong way for being a bit crude or distasteful, but for every third half-cooked rock clichÃ© parody the movie shamelessly exploits, one clever and unique joke rears it's head to keep seasoned comedy fans and music-heads interested.
In what might be quintessential "friend of" John C. Reilly's first headlining gig since his lead in Paul Thomas Anderson's relatively obscure debut Hard Eight, casting proves competent at least. When the repetitious, shallow Saturday Night Live extended sketch (complete with obligatory multiple cast members)vibe starts to sink in, at least a brisk, mock-epic pace laced with impressively produced, silly pseudo-songs make this walk worth taking once.