Movie Review- Tropic Thunder

Tropic Thunder- More Thunder Than Lightning

This movie seemed to be a can't miss. Several major stars inhabit the cast, and the concept seemed like a fun one. There are a few laughs to be had, but in general, the movie lacks depth and the characters, while fairly well developed, are still not likeable enough to care about.

Tropic Thunder does do a great job of introducing the audience to each of our 4 main characters. This is mainly done in fake trailers before the feature, as well as an "Access Hollywood" segment shortly after the start. Ben Stiller plays the former big action hero, Jack Black, the "hilarious" one doesn't get respect in his role(s) playing multiple obese characters a la Eddie Murphy. Robert Downey Jr. is the serious actor who tends to go overboard and becomes the characters he plays.

I forget the name of the 4th actor, but he portrays the rapper-turned-mogul character, who is mainly there to keep Downey Jr's character in check.

There is a very draggy scene right at the start between Stiller and Downey that you will just beg to be over, but the movie does get going quickly enough. The laughs really start once the actors are thrown into a real-life dangerous situation in the jungle, yet think they are still filming.

Downey Jr is the first to realize the gunplay is no longer fake, and takes action to get everyone to safety.

Unfortunately, the Jack Black character has little to do but annoy, and this continues his streak of not entertaining me, which is now up to 6 years.

As most of you are aware, Tom Cruise plays the movie executive in a fat suit. Many other critics have deemed this to be a hilarious role, and one which will allow him to shed his Scientology image, and begin to climb back to the top of Hollywood mountain.

I totally disagree. He was too over-the-top, and his act wore thin.

The other press-maker from this movie has been the controversial mentally challenged topic.

Stiller and Downey Jr. do go a little overboard with this, and when the drug lords force Stiller to recreate his role of Simple Jack, it does get a little uncomfortable at times. So if you are easily offended, this is your warning.

Some of the best and most believable acting came from unknown actors. The child leader of the drug lords was very believable. Some of the other townspeople showed range and heart, and you will almost find yourself rooting for the bad guys.

Overall, Tropic Thunder is entertaining enough with a few laughs, but there are a few draggy spots, and some of the actors are nothing more than annoyances. I give Tropic Thunder a C+.