Review of Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Kevin James' New Movie Produced by Adam Sadler Now on DVD
Jul 30, 2009
Kevin James has transitioned from the idiot box to the big screen seamlessly. Coming from a hit television series like King of Queens does not always translate to success in the movie world. Luckily James’ talent is bigger than he is making him successful no matter where he plies his wares.
James’ latest film, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, uses all of his comedic skill not just as the lead actor but as the writer as well. Now out on DVD, Paul Blart: Mall Cop is hilarious, sweet, and surprisingly clean. It shows it is possible to make an incredibly funny movie without the sex, language, and filth.
Kevin James is Paul Blart
Paul Blart is a man that takes his job seriously. Some would say too seriously. After trying and failing to join the New Jersey State Police, he continues to live his dream of law enforcement as a security guard, aka mall cop, at a local mall. A bit of a loner, Blart falls in love with the new cashier at the wig kiosk, Amy.
Amy draws Blart out of his shell and he falls hard for her. An accidental drunken night out tarnishes him in her eyes and all seems lost for the star crossed lovers. When the mall is overtaken on Black Friday by a gang of thieves, Blart proves his bravery and loyalty. With Amy as a hostage, he is able to prove his love.
Paul Blart: Mall Cop is a Good Clean Comedy
It seems that every comedy now a day is a cesspool of nudity and language. While that may have its place in society, it is nice not to be bombarded with such low-brow humor. That’s not to say that Paul Blart: Mall Cop is a sophisticated film.
Much of its humor is what has made James famous. There is a lot of well done physical comedy. When Blart goes out with some people from work, he accidentally drinks a few margaritas. As he stumbles around the bar babbling and embarrassing himself, it’s hard to not laugh. The finale of his drunken stumbling is flipping backwards though a window. Another scene has Blart colliding with a parked minivan in the mall on his Segway as he stares longingly at Amy. This is classic Kevin James.
Paul Blart: Mall Cop has a Great Cast of Characters
The casting in Paul Blart: Mall Cop was done perfectly. The important characters are played very well. Jayma Mays as Amy is so sweet. She has a natural innocence and the audience falls in love with her. Blart’s daughter is played by Raini Rodriguez and has just the right amount of spunk and intelligence. She is a cute kid with lots of talent.
Of course there has to be a jerk or two to make some tension. Stuart is a pen salesman that has more arrogance than his position should allow and is played with wonderful snobbery by Stephen Rannazzisi. We know this is produced by Adam Sandler because Allen Covert has a small, but important role. He plays Jerky Security Guy. He was good enough; he deserved at least a first name.
Kevin James has proven he can take on any challenge. He can be a supporting character or play a lead role. Like many of the legendary big comedians, his talent is far larger than he is. Paul Blart: Mall Cop is a feather in his cap and shows he can do whatever he sets his to.
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