Search - Bob Funk on DVD

A couple laughs, but more of a serious film

Steve Kuehl | Ben Lomond, CA | 06/20/2009

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This was being advertised heavily and trailered as an outrageous comedy, which admittedly the first act has a few great lines and moments, but it quickly devolves into a serous take on alcoholism and life changes.

The lead womanizing, alcoholic, ranting character was played well by Michael Leydon Campbell, and from what I have seen before this is his breakout role. He manages to fit five different personalities into this story and has all of the screen time, even though he is not given listing on the front cover. The supporting cast has a slew of recognizable faces, including Stephen Root, Grace Zabriskie (much better seen in the Big Love series), Eddie Jemsion (Ocean's trilogy) and Rachael Leigh Cook as the absent love interest.

The segmented story follows him as he devolves into an alcoholic mess, all while losing his job, "friends", motivation and easy one night stands from his main bar. Once the second and third acts materialize the few laughs go away, and a serious recovery tone takes over. The only other funny line later in the movie is from Grace's character with that "I am an island in the middle of Crazy River".

The movie drags in quite a few areas, Campbell's rants get irritating, but his life lessons learned make for a somewhat redeeming quality as far as a message film goes.

Aside from a couple plant reviews here, cover art that has nothing to do with the film (the large picture on the back never happens, planted quotes including..."RLC's best since She's All That" - hardly, "RLC shines as the heroine.." - not even close, she trips into the last scene to try and redeem the absent love story), no special features and average picture and sound, makes this an overall non-recommendation. But maybe some of the spot supporting performances will make this a decent rental for their fans.

"

Funniest movie about alcoholism ever.

K. Dennehy | LA, CA | 06/06/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This movie is truly a laugh/cry experience. Michael Leydon Campbell's performance is revelatory. I saw him in Sidewalks of New York, playing two completely different characters and knew he was an extremely talented actor then. So when I saw he was the lead in this movie, I had to go. He surpassed all my expectations of a troubled leading man character.

The supporting cast is charming and funny/touching. The direction is fresh, funny, sharp and smart. And the scenes in the therapist's office are hilarious for anyone who's ever been there!"