cougarfan-bridger

Fans of Andy Samberg's film Hot Rod have waited a long time to see something that matched the humor and feel of that classic comedy. The Lonely Island has brought its unique brand of comedy to the small screen with SNL skits, and Popstar is a classic return to the big screen. While bizarre and goofy, it was filled with funny moments, especially to those who have seen all the music videos of The Lonely Island. With many references to previous skits, it will be enjoyable for fans of the show, but I could see how those unfamiliar with The Lonely Island will find the movie somewhat dumb and lacking in humor. I found Popstar fairly funny throughout, with a few laugh out loud moments. I will admit the story line was stretched and ridiculous, but it was never meant to be taken too seriously to begin with. I would probably see this again, and would recommend it to those who are familiar with Andy Samberg and Company's previous works.

I'll admit that I am unfamiliar with most of Shane Black's original works, watching The Nice Guys made me want to go back and take a look at his earlier films. The characters were well written, even better cast, and fit well with the theme of the film. There was rare a dull moment, it seemed I was either enjoying the dark comedic tone, or getting engaged in the plot. While the first two thirds of the film seemed excellent, the writers set themselves up for a fantastic finish, but were unable to capitalize on that potential. The script seemed to suddenly turn very basic, with things "falling" into place almost too miraculously to be true. I never felt like I had truly been given an ending worthy of a classic detective story, but the fast pace of the film and humor was enough to make it very enjoyable.

Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne and Zac Efron all reprise their roles in the second installment of the Neighbors series, this time taking on a rowdy sorority next door. While I have to admit, I thought the first Neighbors was hilarious, and trailers had me thinking this would be a fantastic follow up, I was let down. But only a little. While sometimes raunchy for no apparent reason (it is a Seth Rogen film so you have to expect that), Neighbors 2 had enough laughs to keep me reasonably entertained, but never rolling on the floor like I was while watching the first one. As the movie went on, I began to question more and more why a sequel was necessary, and it began to feel like a cookie cutter film based off of the first one's success. Those who enjoyed the first one will probably find something to laugh about with this sequel, but nothing to talk about the next day.