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Gareth von Kallenbach (965 KP) rated The Campaign (2012) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
When a pug owning, sweater-wearing simpleton, Marty Huggins (Zach Galifianakis), unexpectedly becomes the congressional candidate of choice for two wealthy businessmen, he finds himself in a wild race against the walking political stereotype incumbent, Cam Brady (Will Ferrell).
Galifianakis fans will be excited to see the star playing a new role; the slightly sweet bumpkin, Marty, is a far cry from Galifianakis’ breakout character in “The Hangover”. And his co-star, Will Ferrell once again steps out of the shadow of Frank the Tank to remind the public just how funny he can be. And the film is well rounded with the noteworthy side characters, from the unstoppably serious campaign manager played by Dylan McDermott to the sharply focused politician’s wife played by Katherine LaNasa
Offering viewers an unending stream of chuckles, “The Campaign” is not gut-bustingly-hilarious. Instead the film is a stream of small jokes about the American political system, focusing on the lying and issue-skirting that the politics are famed for. Dotted with the occasional crazed political strategy and creative mud-slinging, “The Campaign” avoids trying too hard through simple comedy.
However, the film is not without fault. The movie is slow at times and there are a number of unnecessarily forced scenes, such as the already rumor-riddled CGI baby punch. Moreover, the disappointing portrayal of Cam’s advisor, Mitch, by the usually hilarious Jason Sudeikis, added no value to the picture.
Even with these small flubs, the film succeeds due to the comedic partnership of Galifianakis and Ferrell. The duo knows no bounds when it comes to delivering ridiculous funny lines.
A pleasant way to kick-off the political season, “The Campaign” manages to avoid all-too-common political comedy errors by focusing on the funny facets of the political process and avoiding the actual issues.
Galifianakis fans will be excited to see the star playing a new role; the slightly sweet bumpkin, Marty, is a far cry from Galifianakis’ breakout character in “The Hangover”. And his co-star, Will Ferrell once again steps out of the shadow of Frank the Tank to remind the public just how funny he can be. And the film is well rounded with the noteworthy side characters, from the unstoppably serious campaign manager played by Dylan McDermott to the sharply focused politician’s wife played by Katherine LaNasa
Offering viewers an unending stream of chuckles, “The Campaign” is not gut-bustingly-hilarious. Instead the film is a stream of small jokes about the American political system, focusing on the lying and issue-skirting that the politics are famed for. Dotted with the occasional crazed political strategy and creative mud-slinging, “The Campaign” avoids trying too hard through simple comedy.
However, the film is not without fault. The movie is slow at times and there are a number of unnecessarily forced scenes, such as the already rumor-riddled CGI baby punch. Moreover, the disappointing portrayal of Cam’s advisor, Mitch, by the usually hilarious Jason Sudeikis, added no value to the picture.
Even with these small flubs, the film succeeds due to the comedic partnership of Galifianakis and Ferrell. The duo knows no bounds when it comes to delivering ridiculous funny lines.
A pleasant way to kick-off the political season, “The Campaign” manages to avoid all-too-common political comedy errors by focusing on the funny facets of the political process and avoiding the actual issues.
Veronica Pena (690 KP) rated Daddy's Home (2015) in Movies
Apr 23, 2020 (Updated Apr 23, 2020)
I thought this film was fine. It had its moments of funny. It was a little predictable, but I feel like with these movies it always is. I do think that Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell are good together. I found Dusty to be annoying, but I guess that was kind of the point. I am going to watch the second one because I want to know what happens - whatever that's worth.
I didn't like that they kept implying Brad was racist. I just don't find those jokes funny and I'm surprised they tried to land so many.
I didn't like that they kept implying Brad was racist. I just don't find those jokes funny and I'm surprised they tried to land so many.
David McK (3180 KP) rated Megamind (2010) in Movies
Mar 19, 2021
Under-rated Dreamworks animation, with Will Ferrell voicing the super villain Megamind, who spends his time fighting against the superhero MetroMan.
And then (he thinks) manages to defeat and kill the same, after he he sinks into a funk of depression.
Like Despicable Me, this also has a character called Minion (here, one character instead of a group of the same), with most of the banter coming from the interaction between Megamind and Minion in what is (essentially) a family friendly underdog story as Megamind discovers that being a villain is not everything there is to life.
And then (he thinks) manages to defeat and kill the same, after he he sinks into a funk of depression.
Like Despicable Me, this also has a character called Minion (here, one character instead of a group of the same), with most of the banter coming from the interaction between Megamind and Minion in what is (essentially) a family friendly underdog story as Megamind discovers that being a villain is not everything there is to life.
Sarah (7798 KP) rated Elf (2003) in Movies
Dec 23, 2018
It isn’t Christmas without Elf
The majority of classic Christmas films tend to be fairly old school, but Elf is by far the best more modern Christmas film - despite now being 15 years old.
It’a absolutely hilarious, and so lovely and heart warming too. The plot is fun and entertaining, and there are some great performances from Will Ferrell and James Caan, there are some really brilliant quotes and lines in this. It’s showing it’s age a little bit now and some of the effects are a bit dodgy, but it’s still a classic festive film. It really isn’t Christmas until you watch Elf.
It’a absolutely hilarious, and so lovely and heart warming too. The plot is fun and entertaining, and there are some great performances from Will Ferrell and James Caan, there are some really brilliant quotes and lines in this. It’s showing it’s age a little bit now and some of the effects are a bit dodgy, but it’s still a classic festive film. It really isn’t Christmas until you watch Elf.
Lee (2222 KP) rated Daddy's Home 2 (2017) in Movies
Dec 8, 2017
Starts off great but soon veers off into not so great territory.
This year hasn't been good for the comedy movie genre. Will Ferrell in particular managed to star in one of the worst 'comedy' movies I've seen in a long time with 'The House' and even the anticipated sequel to one of the better comedies in recent years, Bad Moms, turned out to be a complete dud. So when a similar, Christmas themed sequel to what was essentially one of the more average movies in recent years came along, my hopes weren't exactly high. The original Daddys Home coasted along on the likeable pairing of Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg but did feature a handful of funny elements, obviously enough to greenlight a sequel.
As mentioned previously, Daddys Home 2 is set at Christmas time. Brad and Dusty (Ferrell and Wahlberg) have worked out their differences from the first movie and are getting along just fine as 'co-dads' to the kids. When their own dads (Mel Gibson and John Lithgow) pay a visit, they decide to have a 'together' family Christmas, and Kurt (Gibson) even manages to book a luxury cabin in the snow for them to enjoy it all in. It's a bit of a whirlwind setup, but for a while it all works surprisingly well. I found myself really laughing at some scenes, it was like watching a classic Christmas family disaster along the lines of National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.
But sadly, the momentum soon drops. Scene after scene fails to hit home, and some scenes even leave you wondering what the hell they were thinking by including them in the movie in the first place. Mel Gibsons character becomes increasingly annoying and it's all just a bit of a shame really. Things manage to get back on track towards the end of the movie but it's disappointing that it doesn't retain the high level of laughs and entertainment that kicked off the first third or so.
As mentioned previously, Daddys Home 2 is set at Christmas time. Brad and Dusty (Ferrell and Wahlberg) have worked out their differences from the first movie and are getting along just fine as 'co-dads' to the kids. When their own dads (Mel Gibson and John Lithgow) pay a visit, they decide to have a 'together' family Christmas, and Kurt (Gibson) even manages to book a luxury cabin in the snow for them to enjoy it all in. It's a bit of a whirlwind setup, but for a while it all works surprisingly well. I found myself really laughing at some scenes, it was like watching a classic Christmas family disaster along the lines of National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.
But sadly, the momentum soon drops. Scene after scene fails to hit home, and some scenes even leave you wondering what the hell they were thinking by including them in the movie in the first place. Mel Gibsons character becomes increasingly annoying and it's all just a bit of a shame really. Things manage to get back on track towards the end of the movie but it's disappointing that it doesn't retain the high level of laughs and entertainment that kicked off the first third or so.
Blake Griffin recommended Old School (2003) in Movies (curated)
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Runaway Romance in Books
Feb 27, 2019
It's been sometime since I read a Miralee Ferrell novel. I loved her work when I read her Love Finds You books, but I hadn't read them in a long time. So, when the opportunity arose for me to review her new book, Runaway Romance, I jumped. It sounded intriguing and not like what I am used to from her and I couldn't wait to jump into it. I was very happy that I did!
This book is filled with fun loving characters. I was instantly hooked on Ann and Hunter's characters and they both settled into my heart to stay. I loved the way Ann fell in love with the Amish Inn and their way of living. I feel the same way when I go to Amish country! And Hunter, bless him! I loved his character so much. I really felt for him, watching him be a little cautious when it came to Ann. My momma self came out when his character was introduced.
In Miralee Ferrelly fashion, she throws in a few characters that you will either love, or love to hate. I enjoyed getting to know ALL of the characters within the pages of this new book. Each one brought something different to the tables and really kept me turning the pages long into the night.
This is definitely a 5 star book! I highly recommend it to all who are looking for a book on trusting God, forgiving and learning to accept His will. The characters will take you on a whirlwind ride and leave you wanting more! I am definitely looking forward to more books like this in the future from Ms. Ferrell. Well done!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
This book is filled with fun loving characters. I was instantly hooked on Ann and Hunter's characters and they both settled into my heart to stay. I loved the way Ann fell in love with the Amish Inn and their way of living. I feel the same way when I go to Amish country! And Hunter, bless him! I loved his character so much. I really felt for him, watching him be a little cautious when it came to Ann. My momma self came out when his character was introduced.
In Miralee Ferrelly fashion, she throws in a few characters that you will either love, or love to hate. I enjoyed getting to know ALL of the characters within the pages of this new book. Each one brought something different to the tables and really kept me turning the pages long into the night.
This is definitely a 5 star book! I highly recommend it to all who are looking for a book on trusting God, forgiving and learning to accept His will. The characters will take you on a whirlwind ride and leave you wanting more! I am definitely looking forward to more books like this in the future from Ms. Ferrell. Well done!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Madbatdan82 (341 KP) rated Holmes and Watson (2018) in Movies
Mar 18, 2019
Utter codswallop
First I have to be honest - for the first time I'm reviewing something that I've not finished watching/playing/reading. However there is a reason for that...I am a massive will Ferrell fan. I love everything he does and especially love the connection he has with John c Reilly. Step brothers and Talladega nights whilst by no means classics thoroughly entertained me. So when I saw they were reuniting again I was excited. So I've never been so disappointed in a film. I managed maybe 45 mins in before I had to give up. Just truly awful. Literally nothing even came close to making me laugh. Lots of poor knob gags and 'funny' accents. Just utterly dreadful - avoid!!!
Elli H Burton (1288 KP) rated Daddy's Home (2015) in Movies
Oct 25, 2019
The comedy is so natural in this. (1 more)
Finally a film about the struggles of modern families.
Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg.
Contains spoilers, click to show
Only clicked spoilers as i reveal essentially the plot.
Love this film, so funny and entertaining however it makes me cringe so much at some points which put me off giving it a higher rating. When people are competing the way they are and sabotaging eachother, to an extent it is funny but I think this movie goes a bit too far for my liking.
Mark Wahlberg is just so sexy in this, if you watch something like Ted where he's quite an everyday looking guy but in this he's just oozes sexy.
Ladies, he has a topless scene. You're welcome.
Love this film, so funny and entertaining however it makes me cringe so much at some points which put me off giving it a higher rating. When people are competing the way they are and sabotaging eachother, to an extent it is funny but I think this movie goes a bit too far for my liking.
Mark Wahlberg is just so sexy in this, if you watch something like Ted where he's quite an everyday looking guy but in this he's just oozes sexy.
Ladies, he has a topless scene. You're welcome.
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020) in Movies
Aug 24, 2020
The Story of Fire Saga is EXACTLY what I expected it be. It's so very silly, but it's stupidly entertaining.
The yearly Eurovision Song Contest is the epitome of car crash television. Any lack of merit is made up for by the sheer cheesiness of it all, and it's ultimately not very good, but it's hard to look away.
Fire Saga takes this concept, and just adds Will Ferrell to the mix - arguably perfect casting for a film based on this subject.
Both Ferrell and Rachel McAdams are great, and are willing to poke fun at themselves. Legion's Dan Stevens is fantastic as well.
Some of the songs written for this are just ridiculous. They would fit in seamlessly alongside any real world Eurovision stuff - well written nonsense I guess would be an apt description.
On the surface, Fire Saga may appear silly, it actually possesses a huge amount of heart. Although some (like me) find Eurovision pretty dumb, it clearly means a lot to many people. This is shown off in spades here, and boasts some genuinely emotional plot points. The narrative isn't too dissimilar to Blades of Glory on terms of structure if that helps to picture it.
All in all, The Story of Fire Saga is hugely entertaining, pretty funny, and is brimming with charm. You would have to have a heart of stone to not get something out of it.
The yearly Eurovision Song Contest is the epitome of car crash television. Any lack of merit is made up for by the sheer cheesiness of it all, and it's ultimately not very good, but it's hard to look away.
Fire Saga takes this concept, and just adds Will Ferrell to the mix - arguably perfect casting for a film based on this subject.
Both Ferrell and Rachel McAdams are great, and are willing to poke fun at themselves. Legion's Dan Stevens is fantastic as well.
Some of the songs written for this are just ridiculous. They would fit in seamlessly alongside any real world Eurovision stuff - well written nonsense I guess would be an apt description.
On the surface, Fire Saga may appear silly, it actually possesses a huge amount of heart. Although some (like me) find Eurovision pretty dumb, it clearly means a lot to many people. This is shown off in spades here, and boasts some genuinely emotional plot points. The narrative isn't too dissimilar to Blades of Glory on terms of structure if that helps to picture it.
All in all, The Story of Fire Saga is hugely entertaining, pretty funny, and is brimming with charm. You would have to have a heart of stone to not get something out of it.