Viewed in
2009
Premise
Four buddies go to Las Vegas for a bachelor party, and all hell breaks loose and hilarity ensues.
Who should watch
Those who want to have a fun(ny) time at the movies.
Thoughts
Finally, a lean, mean, laughing machine!
I do not recall laughing at such a high frequency during a film in a long time. It delivered a great blend of slapstick, raunchy, random, inappropriate and broad comedy without any slow moments or boring romantic subplots. Kudos to the writing, directing and acting. It had to balance on a thin line between outrageous and plausible, and it barely hung on by a pinkie.
As a 'Daily Show' fan, I was glad to see Ed Helms succeed in his first 'lead' role. I was also glad to see the still hot Heather Graham still employed. The Mike Tyson cameo was great, because unlike others, his character was actually a meaningful (and very funny) subplot. The actor playing the Gaysian (gay + Asian) mobster was hilarious.
My favorite parts was anything involving the tiger, because it was interesting to watch from a film maker standpoint on how those scenes were achieved. Also, I totally did not expect a hilarious parody/reference to 'Rain Man'.
My main gripe was that it lacked that 'oomph' factor to make it great and memorable. Five years from now, somebody will ask me 'Should I rent 'The Hangover'?', and I will reply 'yes', but I will not remember why they should watch it.
Also, Ed Helms' character arc was completely predictable. On the other hand, I was completely wrong about predicting the missing groom's arc.
This film was like a fun party in Vegas... without the hangover.
What I would change
Nothing.
