This convoluted double buddy comedy/farce has lots of twists and turns, combines some Harold and Kumar, some Dumb and Dumber, along with "the girl". Although there are funny scenes, the movie grows more and more far-fetched until we finally reach the end. Stay after the credits for one of the best wrap-up scenes!!
Ok, this is a little cynical. But the overall impression is a sequel that is somewhat of a money grab. The main characters? Hardly present. Mater? Way overused. A James Bond spy movie about cars? Not much of a "vehicle". The good news is the movie has nothing inappropriate, sticks to the cute and safe, and keeps things moving. There are some funny scenes (we start to learn about the lifecycle and habits of these "creatures"). And it mostly holds your attention. Pixar will have to rethink sequels if this is the direction of the future.
The movie takes place in the far off year of 1979, basically a few years after E.T. This frees it from computers, cell phones, etc. Interestingly they do refer to missing microwave ovens, which were not in popular use until the mid-80's. The kids are the stars and they do a decent job, esp. the leads. At times the pacing is on the slow side, esp. the first half. A quick synopsis of the movie's plot would be E.T./Goonies/War of the Worlds. There is something here for everyone, as long as they are ok with teenage romance, sci-fi action, moderate horror, and retro mild humor. We left the movie feeling good, though wished the ending had included some kind of debrief.
You must be prepared to see some images that you may find disturbing as they are a bit out of the norm for what an R-rated movie would usually show. That said, there are quite a few very funny scenes of a graphic nature. Owen Wilson is more laid back and comfortable than usual, with good costar chemistry of Jason Sudeikis. Nice to see some local scenery (Providence, Falmouth Cape Cod). The movie is mostly paced well, and winds up with some twists in the end.
A very true to life viewing of the world of boxing, Lowell, drugs, and prison with a mixed family structure; frequent profanity gets tiresome. Fighting scenes disjointed, sometimes slow, sometimes fast, bloody. Held my attention for full 2 hour running time.
My teen son wanted to see this. The theater was maybe 20% full, mostly college age, some snuck in beer. The movie starts slow and builds with a mix of 80's themes, semi-real action, raunch, wordplay, foul language, and just generally nutty behavior. I have to admit that about halfway in we were all laughing hysterically and I actually was hoarse when we left! There are some disturbing elements, so not for the feint of heart.
There is a lot ebb and flow here. It keeps your attention, but sometimes just barely. The story line is pretty loose, this is more about action and unbelievable spectacles of CGI on display. I left thinking this was an ok movie, but not for me; my 15 year-old left saying it was "good". So I would recommend it for the teen set. Especially if interested in myths/legends and strange forces.
I went to see this as a family movie, thinking it would be tame enough. Well, it was, but just barely. There was a ton of laughter coming from all those high school kids - there's a lot of sexual content here. There were some pretty funny scenes, and an awesome car chase (though too short). The advertisement for the Nook was just plain stupid.
This is a movie for everyone who loves action, superheroes, sci-fi, great special effects, romantic interests, etc. to enjoy. I am recommending this to everyone, and I am also advising people to see the first Iron Man as there is a strong connection. See it again!
I went with my wife. She found it humorous. I found it completely stupid, predictable, and one of the worst movies I have ever seen. Men - send the wives and stay home with the kids; fire up that Iron Man (1) Blu-Ray you bought, and thank your lucky stars.