Nothing New Here...

The problem with Chris Rock's directorial debut is that we have seen this all before. Every joke is recycled and tired... every scene is uninspired and unoriginal... and Chris Rock just isn't fresh anymore. Maybe it's just me but the hilarity of seeing old-white-folk dancing around to hip-hop and 'acting black' wore off a very long time ago. I wish Chris Rock would do just one project or tell just one joke that wasn't, in any way, shape or form, related to race. But I don't think he has that in him. He is a one joke comedian that is rapidly running out of variations on that joke.

The movie tells the story of a decoy candidate for president that is there for the sole purpose of raising the race card for political gain. However, the plan backfires and his 'tell it like it is' strategy works with the American public. He selects his brother to be his running mate... a brother who shows affection by punching people left and right. Oh the laughs!!!

This is a forgettable Chris Rock vehicle that will undoubtedly have opening weekend success followed almost immediately by steep declines and a quick trip to video.

© Written by TC Candler

How We Rated This Film TC Candler - D Richard Propes - C- Jacob Hall -

Richard Propes' Comment

This film was a pretty major disappointment largely attributable to Chris Rock himself. Rock stars in, directs and co-writes this film, but it has none of the humor, edge or bite that used to dependably come from Rock. This film contains tired old jokes, over the top racial stereotypes and improbable, if not impossible, situations personally, professionally and politically. Rock is unchallenged here and his lack of energy really plagues this film. He's also plagued by a weak supporting cast including an annoying performance by Robin Givens. The only sign of life in this film comes from Bernie Mac, but his character is so out of whack that it's impossible to bond with him. There were a couple times I thought we might return to vintage Rock...especially in his Chicago speech and when he starts to find his own voice...but, vintage Rock never really happens. I never thought I'd say it, but this is one really bland Chris Rock film.

Jacob Hall's Comment

n/a