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Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated The Wedding Ringer (2015) in Movies
Aug 6, 2019
When I first heard the title of this movie, I probably thought what 99% of the population thought… that sounds like The Wedding Singer. Without even knowing anything about the film I had this preconceived notion that it was about a jeweler for weddings who is the best jeweler in town! Sarcasm is so hard to convey, but picture the end of that last sentence dripping with it.
It seems like Kevin Hart is in everything these days. He is the big name to know, and on everyone’s short list (rim shot). But it’s for good reason. They guy is funny. So I had a little hope The Wedding Ringer. Especially when you partner him with Josh Gad, a person more commonly known for being the supporting actor. Who is still a supporting actor in this film, but you wouldn’t know it.
For those that don’t know, TWR is about Doug Harris (Gad), a bridegroom who finds himself in a little bit of a pickle. It’s 10 days before his wedding, and he still has yet to figure out how to tell Gretchen (Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting), his bride-to-be, that his Best Man, and entire wedding party, are entirely fictitious. Never fear, for Harris is lead to Jimmy Callahan (Hart), proprietor of The Best Man, Inc. Only Jimmy doesn’t know exactly what he’s getting into as he makes an attempt at the fabled “Golden Tuxedo”, a myth in the business of being able to provide a 7-man grooms party in 10 days. Hilarity and hijinks ensue.
This movie was far better than I imagined it would be. With edgy humor, and great cameo appearances, the film delivers. Not afraid to make inside jokes about the actors’ previous roles, and not focusing on racial humor that some may anticipate, the film did not disappoint. The chemistry between Hart and Gad was good. It wasn’t great, but you can tell there was some. Hearing Cuoco-Sweeting curse after watching her for years on network television was a bit of a shock at first, but it certainly seemed natural. It was just so hard to accept the fact that she played her character so well, being the opposite end of the spectrum from some of the things she is most known for.
As I mentioned earlier, there were some great cameos throughout the film. Without giving away the big surprises, be on the lookout for Josh Peck, Cloris Leachman, Mimi Rogers, Whitney Cummings and Jeffrey Ross (just to name a few). Surprisingly enough, the edgiest jokes did not even come from the main cast, but more the supporting actors. They did an excellent job of spreading the humor. And while soundtrack is not a huge focus for comedies, I thought it a nice touch that many of the selections were more than fitting for the scenes.
Was the movie formulaic? You betcha? I called the ending of the movie a mere 20 minutes in. Are all of the jokes original? No. There were some great ones that I have never heard before, and the ones that you’ve seen a lot were delivered in fresh, creative way. Is it a movie that’s going to win awards? Likely not, but it’s definitely worth checking out for date night.
Bottom line, the movie surpassed my expectations by a mile. It was nice to see a movie that doesn’t rely on the obvious jokes and humor you would expect given the cast and setting. This is definitely one that will be making its way into my collection when released for home viewing, and I may head out and take a gander at it again this weekend.
It seems like Kevin Hart is in everything these days. He is the big name to know, and on everyone’s short list (rim shot). But it’s for good reason. They guy is funny. So I had a little hope The Wedding Ringer. Especially when you partner him with Josh Gad, a person more commonly known for being the supporting actor. Who is still a supporting actor in this film, but you wouldn’t know it.
For those that don’t know, TWR is about Doug Harris (Gad), a bridegroom who finds himself in a little bit of a pickle. It’s 10 days before his wedding, and he still has yet to figure out how to tell Gretchen (Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting), his bride-to-be, that his Best Man, and entire wedding party, are entirely fictitious. Never fear, for Harris is lead to Jimmy Callahan (Hart), proprietor of The Best Man, Inc. Only Jimmy doesn’t know exactly what he’s getting into as he makes an attempt at the fabled “Golden Tuxedo”, a myth in the business of being able to provide a 7-man grooms party in 10 days. Hilarity and hijinks ensue.
This movie was far better than I imagined it would be. With edgy humor, and great cameo appearances, the film delivers. Not afraid to make inside jokes about the actors’ previous roles, and not focusing on racial humor that some may anticipate, the film did not disappoint. The chemistry between Hart and Gad was good. It wasn’t great, but you can tell there was some. Hearing Cuoco-Sweeting curse after watching her for years on network television was a bit of a shock at first, but it certainly seemed natural. It was just so hard to accept the fact that she played her character so well, being the opposite end of the spectrum from some of the things she is most known for.
As I mentioned earlier, there were some great cameos throughout the film. Without giving away the big surprises, be on the lookout for Josh Peck, Cloris Leachman, Mimi Rogers, Whitney Cummings and Jeffrey Ross (just to name a few). Surprisingly enough, the edgiest jokes did not even come from the main cast, but more the supporting actors. They did an excellent job of spreading the humor. And while soundtrack is not a huge focus for comedies, I thought it a nice touch that many of the selections were more than fitting for the scenes.
Was the movie formulaic? You betcha? I called the ending of the movie a mere 20 minutes in. Are all of the jokes original? No. There were some great ones that I have never heard before, and the ones that you’ve seen a lot were delivered in fresh, creative way. Is it a movie that’s going to win awards? Likely not, but it’s definitely worth checking out for date night.
Bottom line, the movie surpassed my expectations by a mile. It was nice to see a movie that doesn’t rely on the obvious jokes and humor you would expect given the cast and setting. This is definitely one that will be making its way into my collection when released for home viewing, and I may head out and take a gander at it again this weekend.
Autumn (430 KP) rated Meddling Kids: A Novel in Books
Dec 8, 2017 (Updated Dec 8, 2017)
Scooby-Doo with a more mature feel
When I found this book while looking for something new to read, I was so excited. It’s described as being similar to Scooby-Doo, which is one of my favorite cartoons. The cover was really cool as well. It did not disappoint. It definitely has a Scooby-Doo feel with some references like the Zoinx river. The cast of characters was similar to that of the mystery inc. gang but with new names and some other changes. It’s a bit more mature with its subject matter, but still holds true to that childish humor and adventure that you would expect from the show. For some, the made up and combined words placed throughout the book might make them dislike it, but I think it added that special, somewhat chaotic charm that Scooby-Doo has. I would love a second book.
Chris Hooker (419 KP) rated Loki: God of Mischief in Books
Jan 12, 2018
I love reading stories about different gods that is why I really enjoyed [Loki: God of Mischief] by [John Christian Hopkins]. The story telling was wonderful and the way everything flowed kept the plot moving. Some of the action was predictable but that did not take away from the story.
[Hopkins] also had a very tongue in cheek sense of humor that really made me laugh out loud at parts (Herr Ball). He is aware of current culture and beliefs and tests them with his story as well as makes a few jabs at the modern media(Godzilla could be good for the economy).
I would recommend this book to anyone. It was easier to read that [American Gods] with less adult content so I can safely recommend it to my students who love [Rick Riordan]. I will be looking for more from [Hopkins]
[Hopkins] also had a very tongue in cheek sense of humor that really made me laugh out loud at parts (Herr Ball). He is aware of current culture and beliefs and tests them with his story as well as makes a few jabs at the modern media(Godzilla could be good for the economy).
I would recommend this book to anyone. It was easier to read that [American Gods] with less adult content so I can safely recommend it to my students who love [Rick Riordan]. I will be looking for more from [Hopkins]
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated An Unforgettable Rogue (Rogues Club, #2) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
Well, this second entry into the Rogues Club series was much better than the first. As with the first book, the plot is unoriginal and I have read better books with the same theme, but it was still a nice, easy, and sometimes humorous read. Also, I love scarred/tortured/etc heroes, they're my weakness! :P All the characters were much more enjoyable and believable, especially Alex and Hawk (I've found that Annette Blair's secondary characters are usually more interesting than the hero and heroine, except Alex and Hawk were equally enjoyable this time), there was more humor, and overall I actually enjoyed it. My main problem was the secret keeping; there were times when I thought, "Just tell him/her you idiot!" Sometimes that can be very annoying in romances. However, as I said before, this book was a nice read to pass the time but nothing too remarkable.
Erika (17789 KP) rated Good Omens in TV
Jun 2, 2019
David Tennant (1 more)
Michael Sheen
I'm not a huge fan of Neil Gaiman (or a fan at all), and I was kind of meh on the novel this is based on. But, when I saw David Tennant and Michael Sheen were cast, I was interested. On a whim, I ended up starting the series last night, and wanted to stay up all night to finish, but didn't.
I liked the series way more than the book itself. I was hooked, and Sheen and Tennant were perfect in their roles. The humor was good, and the casting for the other characters was strong too. Jon Hamm as Gabriel was my other favorite.
Of course, with any TV show, the CGI was shoddy, but it kind of seems like the norm to me. Overall, I'm glad Amazon produced this miniseries, and I may have to watch it again.
I liked the series way more than the book itself. I was hooked, and Sheen and Tennant were perfect in their roles. The humor was good, and the casting for the other characters was strong too. Jon Hamm as Gabriel was my other favorite.
Of course, with any TV show, the CGI was shoddy, but it kind of seems like the norm to me. Overall, I'm glad Amazon produced this miniseries, and I may have to watch it again.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Claiming Addison (69 Bottles, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I have been really into menage books lately. However, they either end up being absolutely amazing or pure garbage. I wasnt sure how to feel about this novel going in because I find I dont really enjoy the whole rock star scene nor do I like when the author has to use the one of them has a dark secret trope (especially since the secret it usually something stupid
)
This novel, however, had everything. It had humor, it had drama, and it had heat. I was surprised by the dialogue. Dialogue can make or break a book for me, but Derrick knew what she was doing. I wish I could have liked the female lead more, but she just didnt sit right with me. I felt like she was too delicate even though she tries to be strong. I found her personality grating at points.
This novel, however, had everything. It had humor, it had drama, and it had heat. I was surprised by the dialogue. Dialogue can make or break a book for me, but Derrick knew what she was doing. I wish I could have liked the female lead more, but she just didnt sit right with me. I felt like she was too delicate even though she tries to be strong. I found her personality grating at points.
Mark Halpern (153 KP) rated Patch Adams (1998) in Movies
Jan 26, 2018
Laughter can help cure
This a true story about Hunter "Patch" Adams who wants nothing more than to help people. He attends medical school and is disliked by most professors becuase of his attitude towards medicine. He takes an unconventional method in using humor to help the people t heal. Of course there are a few who belive in him and even some of the medical staff. However the teaching professors disagree and try their best to stop him from becoming a dr. He fights and graduates and ending up opening a institute called the Gesundheit Institute which treats a more form of holistic care and treats all patients big and small.
This a very Dark Comedy with an sand and great ending. Only the Late great Robin Willliams (RIP) could have player this character and shown what type of person this character is.
This a very Dark Comedy with an sand and great ending. Only the Late great Robin Willliams (RIP) could have player this character and shown what type of person this character is.
Hilary Westfield takes on Captain Blacktooth one last time, this time for leadership of the Very Nearly Honorable League of Pirates. However, there is much more at stake since the Mutineers are plotting once again to take over the kingdom, and this fight might be the only way to stop them. But can Hilary rustle up any kind of pirate crew for the battle?
While I knew the broad outline of the story early on, I had a wonderful time getting to the end. The characters are charming, and the plot moves quickly with a few surprises along the way. I could hardly put the book down. I also loved the humor of the book. I’m sorry to see this series end, but I’m so glad I found it.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/09/book-review-buccaneers-code-by-caroline.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
While I knew the broad outline of the story early on, I had a wonderful time getting to the end. The characters are charming, and the plot moves quickly with a few surprises along the way. I could hardly put the book down. I also loved the humor of the book. I’m sorry to see this series end, but I’m so glad I found it.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/09/book-review-buccaneers-code-by-caroline.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
A group of ghost hunters have returned to the island to search for the ghost of a Prohibition era rum runner. However, when their leader gets murdered, Bea must figure out which of her guests might be a killer in order to clear her friend Kate of the crime.
The story is fun, and the way it wove a mystery from the past into what was happening now was great. The characters are strong, as I expected from the first two books. The humor I’ve enjoyed was still there as well. Unfortunately, the book had some serious editing flaws, including multiple characters getting the location where the body was found wrong. None of these impacted the final outcome, but it did detract from my enjoyment.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/10/book-review-legend-of-sleepy-harlow-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
The story is fun, and the way it wove a mystery from the past into what was happening now was great. The characters are strong, as I expected from the first two books. The humor I’ve enjoyed was still there as well. Unfortunately, the book had some serious editing flaws, including multiple characters getting the location where the body was found wrong. None of these impacted the final outcome, but it did detract from my enjoyment.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/10/book-review-legend-of-sleepy-harlow-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2434 KP) rated Evil Spy School (Spy School #3) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
When Ben gets kicked out of spy school, he accepts an offer to attended SPYDER’s spy school instead. It’s an undercover assignment to find out what their next evil plan is. At least, Ben hopes that’s the case. Since he is cut off from everyone but he new fellow students, can he learn SPYDER’s plans and share them with someone else in time?
Because the setting is different, we don’t get quite as much from the usual supporting characters, but the news characters are just as great. The plot moves forward at a steady pace until the final third, when it kicks into high gear. Add in a nice dose of humor, and you’ve got a wonderful new adventure for Ben and his fans.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/05/book-review-evil-spy-school-by-stuart.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Because the setting is different, we don’t get quite as much from the usual supporting characters, but the news characters are just as great. The plot moves forward at a steady pace until the final third, when it kicks into high gear. Add in a nice dose of humor, and you’ve got a wonderful new adventure for Ben and his fans.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/05/book-review-evil-spy-school-by-stuart.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.