Fritos a balazos

I'm still watching this movie in theater. I'm the only person here at a Saturday evening showing in the 1st week and I understand why. This movie does technically everything correct but it's a rehash of stereotypes from mediocre gangster and cop movies.

If it would be at least trying to imitate good movies it would be better but it doesn't. It does seem like a mid season episode of a second tier crime TV show.

Every character explains their motivations and history in the clearest and plain way, so that absolutely everyone understands is i. It is as subtle as a sledge hammer.

I can imagine it to be cool if You are a teenager and don't know to many of these movies. It has a few nice laughs.

*** Very mild spoiler ***

After finishing the movie: The third act takes a turn to the better, but still on a low level.

I don't get the low rates here. It's a Kevin James movie. What did you expect? Scarface? The Godfather? The guy is a comedian and usually stars in movies that aren't that serious and probably never win a Oscar, but at least they will always be entertaining and enjoyable.

And this movie fits exactly into that mold. Nothing fancy, no extremely deep character development, no deep story, no AAA acting, none of that. Just a movie to put on while you are bored and you don't know which movie to pick. Pick this one, don't expect AAA and you will have a great time. Its fun, enjoyable and it's a good action comedy.

Edward Drake delivers one of the most entertaining films of his filmography. The director and screenwriter, who worked constantly with Bruce Willis during the actor's later years, delivers a simple, straightforward yet effective film thanks to the committed cast at his disposal.

Kevin James's new role as a more serious actor bears fruit, especially in his time as a hitman. Here, he delivers all his usual charisma in a role with subtle comedic overtones that give it an added bonus. He's joined by Christina Ricci, who excels in her role as a hit machine. We also add the always efficient Luis Guzmán as a hilarious supporting actor.

It's a film that has its own small charm and works quite well as a diversion without major expectations. It has enjoyable action sequences and subtle, somewhat dark humour that embellish this action-packed, bullet-riddled film into a pleasant enough weekend watch.

Furthermore, it's a small film among this summer's blockbusters, but it still delivers exactly what it promises without any major complaints. A familiar story, with touches of humour and decent action sequences, seal the success of Guns Up.

Fun, family-friendly action flick, blends action, drama, and family dynamics ideal for a popcorn night.

Unfortunately, The Trailer to "Guns Up" gives away MOST of the plot and a main twist - AVOID - The Trailer and go straight to the movie!

Action comedy featuring Kevin James as an ex-cop turned mob collector seeking a fresh start for his family, with a cast including Christina Ricci, Luis Guzmán and Joey Diaz.

Written and Directed by Edward Drake, it's a solid, entertaining watch, the storyline is engaging but not groundbreaking, with some forced dialogue and a twist that will feel predictable!

While the plot starts slow, it delivers surprises, decent dialogue, and well-choreographed action. Kevin James shines, balancing serious and comedic roles, though the film leans back toward his comedic roots unevenly.

Brendan Galvin's - Cinematography choices - excellent - as most of the filming is shot at night - so none of that "new age gotta be all dark" - instead, nighttime shots blend and transition well into the indoor scenes.

And away ... gone(s) away of sorts ... well no pun intended as always. This feels like it was written by a teenager - no offense even if it sounds like it. There are so many changes - highs and lows ... really tough to connect with the people/characters ... although I was pleasantly surprised with Kevin James - you may be more familiar with him as a comedian, but he can work in action movies too - as in serious and going for ... not his first foray into the action genre.

In the end though it seems to be going back to his ... comedic roots ... but not really in the best way possible. I like that there is a twist, though to be honest I kind of felt that there was more to that character anyway .. so that reveal was nothing special .. except that it kept undermining everything before. Suspension of disbelief is quite big with this one ... the delivery of very fine dialog feels forced too ... so while there are some bangers ... they don't hit home (or restaurant for that matter or whatever else) when they are spoken ... as is said in the movie itself: Everyone wants to be a lion, until they have to do lion sh... well this at least tries to do lion ... stuff, so I guess kudos for that.

Still you can have fun with this ... some liked this (friends of mine), others were left quite cold about it ... I was not too impressed to be honest, neither super disappointed ... although I would have loved better execution (well I had to end on another pun ...)