The Out-Laws Review: An Action-Comedy That Falls Short on Humor

Are you ready for a dose of slapstick comedy mixed with a touch of action? Look no further than “The Out-Laws,” the latest offering from Happy Madison Productions. Starring Adam DeVine as the hapless Owen Browning, this film attempts to blend humor and adventure in a way that will leave you entertained. But does it succeed? Let’s dive into this “Meet the Parents” meets bank robbers story and find out if it delivers the laughs.

A Cartoon Beta and His Unusual Predicament

Our protagonist, Owen Browning, played by Adam DeVine, is a lovable loser, exuding nerves and meekness in equal measure. Picture a mix of Jim Carrey’s energy and a younger, less confident version of Ben Stiller’s characters. Owen finds himself in a peculiar situation where he suspects the masked criminals who robbed the bank he manages are none other than the parents of his fiancée, portrayed by Nina Dobrev. What unfolds is a series of comedic mishaps as Owen tries to prove his suspicions.

A Star-Studded Cast with Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin

Adding some star power to the mix, Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin play the long-estranged parents, infusing the film with their distinct brand of disdain for their future son-in-law. Brosnan’s performance, complete with growls and coolness, harks back to his days as James Bond, while Barkin brings her own charm and wit to the screen.

From Slapstick to Action-Comedy

The Out-Laws starts off as a classic slapstick comedy, reminiscent of films like “Meet the Parents.” However, as the story progresses, it takes an unexpected turn and transforms into an action-packed adventure. Director Tyler Spindel, known for his work on “The Wrong Missy,” injects the film with splashes of action and suspense, bringing a surprising twist to the genre.

The Out-Laws Meets Heat Meets Shrek?

It’s safe to say that The Out-Laws pushes the boundaries of comedy and action. The film features violence and language that goes beyond what you typically find in movies under the Happy Madison banner. The villains, led by a bored kingpin played by Poorna Jagannathan, add a darker and edgier tone to the story. And let’s not forget the abundance of dick jokes, a recurring theme throughout the film.

A Supporting Cast That Deserves Better

While the main focus is on the comedic mishaps of Adam DeVine’s character, The Out-Laws also boasts a talented supporting cast. Richard Kind, Lauren Lapkus, and Lil Rel Howery deliver standout performances, injecting humor into the film. However, it’s hard not to feel that their talents are underutilized, leaving them with little material to work with.

A Career Lowlight or Average Happy Madison Fare?

As far as Happy Madison Productions go, The Out-Laws falls somewhere in the middle. It’s not the worst film in their catalog (looking at you, Paul Blart), but it also doesn’t reach the heights of their better-known comedies. If you’re a fan of Adam DeVine’s style of humor, you may find enough laughs to enjoy the film. However, if you’re seeking a classic comedy with memorable one-liners, this may not be the right choice for you.

Our Verdict: A Mediocre Comedy with Some Action-Packed Surprises

In conclusion, The Out-Laws delivers a mix of comedy and action that fails to fully live up to its potential. Adam DeVine’s charm and the star-studded cast add some entertainment value to the film, but the inconsistent tone and lack of memorable humor hold it back from becoming a standout comedy. If you’re in the mood for a mindless action-comedy with a few laughs, The Out-Laws might be worth a watch. Otherwise, there are better options available in the genre.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is The Out-Laws suitable for all ages?

>The Out-Laws features violence, strong language, and adult humor, making it more suitable for mature audiences.

2. How does the comedy in The Out-Laws compare to other Happy Madison films?

>While The Out-Laws has its moments, it falls short of the comedic brilliance seen in some of Happy Madison’s most successful productions.

3. Can I expect a lot of action scenes in The Out-Laws?

>Yes, the film takes a surprising turn and incorporates action scenes that add an extra layer of excitement to the story.

4. Are there any standout performances in The Out-Laws?

>Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin bring their star power to the film, delivering enjoyable performances despite limited screen time.

5. Is The Out-Laws a film that will be remembered for its comedic genius?

>While it may provide some laughs, The Out-Laws is unlikely to be remembered as a comedic masterpiece.