Media Maven: “Semi Pro” Movie Review

“Semi Pro” Movie Review
Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson, Maura Tierney, Andre Benjamin, Andrew Daly, Matt Walsh, Jackie Earle Haley

Semi Pro is the latest film starring Will Ferrell. It is a story about a semi pro basketball team of losers who are paid by Jackie Moon (Will Ferrell’s character) to entertain the citizens of Flint, Michigan.

Even the fictional film citizens of Flint know what defines entertainment. And going to see Jackie Moon’s Flint Michigan Tropic’s team is not an example. Attendance is low at the home games and Ferrell’s character has to resort to outlandish stunts to increase attendance.

 This movie was so mindless and unworthy that to spend time summarizing the meager plot would only be a waste of both my time and yours, Cincy Chic readers.

If you are a male between the ages of 13 and 15 or have the maturity equivalent to that and you enjoy over 60 minutes of non stop sophomoric humor…then go ahead and waste your money.

Sometimes when a comedy is being made and it is tanking as it reaches its completion, I think directors say “Okay let’s fill the dialogue with expletives and have a gratuitous sex scene thrown in there and that will surely sell this film.” Maura Tierney humping Woody Harrelson while her husband, played by Rob Corddry, gets off filled that requirement.

At one point in the film Will Ferrell looks into the camera and shouts, “FLINT MICHIGAN MEGA BOWL!” over and over again. It was almost as if he was trying to convince the audience by shouting repeatedly THIS IS FUNNY AND YOU SHOULD LAUGH!

I loved “Anchorman.” “Elf” and “Blades of Glory” were films that showcased Ferrell at his best in comedy. His turn in “Stranger Than Fiction” as a leading man in a more serious role showed his acting range. Yet this last film was (I can only surmise) just an easy money maker for all involved.

Chic Stars: One Chic Star

Jan’s Movie Rating System:
5 – Top notch entertainment
4 – Compelling, Heartwarming, Thrilling, Comical
3 – The a) story b) actors c) special effects saved/made this movie.
2 – If you are bored watch it, or wait for DVD
1 – Don’t bother. Too morose, too violent, too blasé, an enigma.