review: HOT ROD

Paramount  //  Buy from Amazon.com Self-proclaimed stuntman Rod Kimble (Samberg) is preparing for the jump of his life. Rod plans to clear fifteen buses in an attempt to raise money for his abusive stepfather Frank's life-saving heart operation. He'll land the jump, get Frank better, and then fight him, hard. Andy Samberg is easily one of the funniest and most creative current cast members of "Saturday Night Live" and given his talents with the digital shorts, it's no surprise that he made the quick leap to the silver screen. His debut film, "Hot Rod," is a crazed, zany, and painfully funny film that eschews the more overt comedy of Adam Sandler or Will Ferrell and instead is surprisingly understated... and powerfully effective. To be sure, his comedy is not for everyone - it's a mix of strange, pathetic and painful, all rolled up into one unsettling mix of emotions, but I found myself entertained from start to finish, at times eyes bulging out in disbelief, at others eyes closed while tears of sheer hilarity welled. He's a strange one, and this is a strange film, but I rank it up there with "Grandma's Boy" and "The Ladies Man" as a recent comedy that is more than a bit off the beaten path, but well worth your time. Video Surprisingly shot & presented in a super-widescreen 2.35:1 aspect ratio, I have no complaints over the transfer of this film: clean, sharp, solid throughout. Nice job. Audio The Dolby 5.1 surround mix is in fine form - it's a comedy, which means front-focused, dialogue-heavy mix, but it's all clear & audible, so thumbs up. Extras audio commentary w/ director & 2 stars behind-the-scenes featurette deleted & extended scenes outtakes Kevin's Videos Closing Thoughts Bizarre, and truly funny, debut film from SNL's Samberg + great assortment of extras = fantastic late night viewing (esp. if inebriated)