OBSERVE & REPORT - REVIEW (ON DVD)
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Director: Jody Hill
Cast: Seth Rogen, Anna Faris, Michael Pena, Ray Liotta
Rating: ***
When you go to a movie with Seth Rogen somewhere in the cast you are guaranteed of two things; handful of side splitting gags and Rogens inability to play anyone but himself. Observe and Report was no different. This second feature from Writer/ Director Jody Hill after the indie hit Foot First Way, is the more adult friendly version of this years Paul Blart: Mall Cop which generally catered for the whole family (and has paid of handsomely, by making 4 times its budget at the Box Office in the US alone). This comparison was also made easier, as a stalwart from Kevin James series 'King Of Queens' also makes a cameo appearance in the movie.
It comes with the usual fodder that is Rogen material ie dick jokes and dead beat characters. There were a few scenes where I was half expecting him to whip out the bong and start making like a smoke machine. This reviewer was pleasantly surprised this was not the case this time around. Though a drug-fueled montage with one of his co-workers was included to appease the teen masses I'm sure but ultimately it did nothing to further the plot.
This reviewer has previously said that Rogen is the new Adam Sandler. My referencing Sandler is largely because Sandler took many movies before touching on the drama genre (Reign Over Me) whereas Rogen has decided to attack it relatively early on, as he ads another depth of character to this movie, where this reviewer actually felt moved by the events that were unfolding . It had a little bit of Riding In Cars With Boys about it which was quite good.
Anna Faris (Scary Movie franchise, The House Bunny) is great in the role as the object of our main characters affection. Her blatant sexuality and obvious aversion to Rogens nerdy charisma provides for some amusing awkwardness. The other woman competing for Rogens affection is an endearing wholesome yet crippled character, who you are manipulated into rooting for from the first time we meet her, in terms of winning his heart over the more glamorous Faris.
A surprise supporting role from Ray Liotta helped to elevate this comedy from the usual fare we see from Rogen, however the visual gags and subject matter of a pervert flasher being the main perpetrator in the Mall Cop band of misfits adventure ultimately make this a formulaic yet solid comedy of so many errors.
The soundtrack is eclectic and fun, and includes some obscure tracks including some rarely heard Queen music that serves well to compliment the action on screen.
However, this movie lacked the impact it had on first viewing at the cinema, and failed to drum up much humour the second time around. Whilst Observe still has merit, there isn't much of a want for repeat viewings.
RottenTomatoes.com rated this a 50/100 (Click the web address for the review) How would you rate it?
