Monday, March 21, 2011

Netflix Movie Monday - 'Grown Ups'

Since I reviewed a chick flick last time for Netflix Movie Monday, I decided to bring one for the guys today. Ladies, if you are looking for a movie that will keep your man's interest, and that you enjoy too, this might be for  you!




First of all, let me say:  I am a HUGE Adam Sandler fan.  I have loved him since his 'Opera Man' days on Saturday Night Live.  'Happy Gilmore' is a cult classic in my family - we can pretty much quote it start to finish ("What's the matter, ball?  You too good for your home??!").

A Happy Madison Production, 'Grown Ups' follows well in these footsteps.  Netflix summarizes it as, "a story of five childhood pals who reunite after 30 years to mourn the loss of their old basketball coach. Gathering at a July 4th celebration where their families meet for the first time, the friends find themselves acting a bit inappropriate for their age."  But it is way more than just that.  

'Grown Ups' runs true to classic Sandler style, delivering slapstick comedy, hilarious one liners, and goofy situations that are sure to bring a laugh.  But, like 'Happy Gilmore' and 'Billy Madison' before it, this movie also manages to bring a lot of heart.  The common Sandler themes of living up to a dead mentor's legacy, being true to yourself, the closeness of family ties and the triumph of the underdog, are alive and well in this feel good flick.

Besides Adam Sandler, who plays the lead role in the film, the cast includes other comedy favorites.  David Spade brings his characteristic dry sarcasm, and Chris Rock plays the token, surprisingly subdued yet still funny, black man.  I could have done without Rob Schneider (don't know why he keeps getting parts in movies), but Selma Hayek pulls out a great performance as Sandler's career oriented wife.  

If you're looking for mind candy that will make you laugh, and are willing to overlook some patently stupid moments (it wouldn't be a Sandler flick without some fart and boob jokes), 'Grown Ups' is the film for you.

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