From the stunning array of filmmaking that was "The Avengers" to the under-rated excellence of "Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World" to the breath-taking "The Dark Knight Rises", we've probably seen some of the best films to come out in a long time -- Summer movie or otherwise. However, some times, we just need to have a little fun when we go to the movies.
"The Watch" (formerly [aptly] titled "Neighborhood Watch") is one movie that's just a good time at the movies. Perhaps not as poignant as "Moonrise Kingdom", deep as "The Dark Knight Rises", or rocking as "The Avengers, "The Watch" still manages to give you what it promises to do from the previews -- entertain you.
After the violent death of a Costco night watchman, Costco manager Evan (Ben Stiller) takes it upon himself to start a neighborhood watch program to protect the citizens of his small Ohio town, as well as track down the watchman's killer. Due to complete lack of interest in the community, Evan is saddled with the beer-guzzling contractor Bob (Vince Vaughn), borderline sociopath Franklin (Jonah Hill), and randy Brit Jamarcus ("The IT Crowd"'s Richard Ayoade). While investigating the grisly murder, the boys of the neighborhood watch discover something they never thought of finding...a potential alien invasion! With lack of cooperation from local police Sgt. Bressman (Will Forte) and the entire community, the watch is left to stop an impending alien invasion on their own, without a single clue on how to do it.
Director Akiva Schaffer ("Superbad", founding member of comedy group The Lonely Island) brings the funny by gathering such talent together and making them shine together in this comedic mayhem. However, it's writing partners Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg ("Superbad", "The Green Hornet"), along with Jared Stern ("Mr. Popper's Penguins") create a screenplay that is both funny and action packed -- perfect for the Summer season.
Getting a cast like this is a comedic miracle. Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, and Jonah Hill are often brilliant on their own, but, put them together, they're unbeatable! The timing and the chemistry is flawless, and you can tell they had a hell of fun time filming this movie together. Add in virtual newcomer Richard Ayoade to American shores, who fits in perfectly and never misses a beat with these comedic heavyweights, and you have a team that is one to be reckoned with.
A crazy as the action and side-splitting as the comedy is, "The Watch" is most brilliant when it's honest. Evan starts various clubs in the community due to trouble at home. Bob is primarily the parent of an unruly teenager who, at the end of the day, is his world. Franklin is left embittered by not making the cut at the police academy. Like Rogen and Goldberg's previous work, "The Watch" is more poignant that it probably has any right to be, but it's a wonderful level to this unexpected gem.
**SOAPBOX MOMENT**
Do not believe the critics for a moment! This is more than just a raunchy comedy. This is a brilliant movie, even if it's not the most intellectual of movies. Hell, "21 Jump Street" was awesome, though not the smartest, and critics LOVE that one. What's the difference? Damned if I know.
FINAL VERDICT: Perhaps not Woody Allen or Wes Anderson, "The Watch" is still a wonderful comedy with lots of heart and crazy action. Just like any other comedy like "Superbad" or "Tower Heist", once you give the film a chance despite the poor critical reviews and the goofy appearance in the trailers, you'll see how great this can be.
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