Pineapple Express (2008)

A stoner and his dealer get caught up in a drug war and the comedy’s exactly what you’d expect–a combination of “that’s gotta hurt” slapstick (Red is the obvious champ in this area) and loud swear-laden and weed-infused riffs of dialogue. Doesn’t break much new ground but Franco’s dim Saul and Rogen’s straight man Dale have good chemistry and keep you engaged in spite of the mediocre plot. An uproarious improvised epilogue at the diner makes up for the over-the-top gun-happy climax.

5

Office Space (1999)

Three company workers who hate their jobs decide to rebel against their greedy boss. (IMDb)

The corporate office culture satire of the first half is pure gold (see the TPS reports gag, Cole’s outrageous Lumbergh, poor Milton’s marvelous mumbling, Peter’s unexpected promotion, the consultants). It loses a bit of its unique flavour once a plot is introduced (could have done without the relationship drama), but still entertains. Bonus points for the two gangsta rap-backed slow-motion montages of Peter not giving a fuck and then the three smashing the photocopier in the field.

7.5/10 (Really Good)

 

Tammy (2014)

After losing her job and learning that her husband has been unfaithful, a woman hits the road with her profane, hard-drinking grandmother. (IMDb)

McCarthy is the only highlight here; her trademark blend of self-deprecating slapstick and decidedly “unfeminine” and unaware mannerisms produces lots of laughs throughout. Elsewhere, Sarandon is awfully awkward and forms a terribly miscast three generations of women with Janney and McCarthy. The rest of the oddly stacked cast flounders amidst the film’s weak attempt at being a romantic dramedy, with its contrived storylines and insubstantial characters. Some good comedy here but not much else.

5.5/10 (Poor)