"Fundamentals, fundamentals, fundamentals"- Every coach on the planet.
Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee reminded of something that for some reason hasn't crossed my mind, and I'm quite embarrassed. I've been neglecting something very fundamental when it comes to criticizing movies.
The brilliant Gene Siskel had a litmus test for movies which isn't only clever, but also insightful. Not sure of the exact wording he used, but to paraphrase "Is the movie as entertaining and clever as a documentary of the lead characters having lunch together?". Sound strange? Watch an episode of Dinner For Five, which Favreau admits he borrowed the idea.
As much as I'd like to share a bowl of Shredded Wheat (the ones the size of throw pillows, not that mini frosted girlie stuff) with Sly, Norris, Arnold, and Bruno, THE EXPENDABLES 2 is a much more delightful and entertaining time.
On the other hand, there are movies such as THE CAMPAIGN. The movie is alright, wasn't great. I would definitely rather watch Zach and Will clown around while eating Southwest Shrimp at their neighborhood Applebee's than watching an hour and a half of Ferrell being unlikeable.
And I've yet to watch an entire TWILIGHT movie, but I believe a recorded lunch with Patterson and Stewart would be a bigger hit with tweens than any of the vampire themed films.
Just food for thought that I think is worth eating.

