Hot Tub Time Machine

This movie is ridiculous. But, it knows it's ridiculous, takes pride in it even, and just has fun with itself. It's sort of a love letter to the 1980's and plays out the male fantasy of the middle-aged loser getting a chance to fix everything that's wrong in his life (times 3). There's good, likable characters, some very funny moments, and I guess it's just about as well-written as a movie sporting the title HOT TUB TIME MACHINE could possibly be.

What makes it better than the average stupid comedy is the characters, and the actors do a really good job of fleshing them out. John Cusack has dabbled in just about every genre there is: romantic chick flicks, action blockbusters, horror/thrillers, and historical dramas, but I have to say, I like him the best when he's doing comedies. He has a down-to-earth charm about him, and in this movie he has a lot of fun with the role and even pokes fun at his 80's heartthrob image. Craig Robinson, who's a master of creating memorable moments out of very tiny roles (Knocked Up, Pineapple Express, Zack And Miri Make A Porno), finally gets a front-and-center part, and very nearly steals the show. I say 'nearly' because the real show-stealer here is Rob Corddry. This is a guy who has an entire career built on thankless supporting roles (Personally I always associate him with TV's "Frank Wrench" from Arrested Development), and he finally gets the opportunity to shine in this movie. He's hilarious, and a great character.

For such a silly movie, I was a bit surprised and taken off-guard by how much I liked and invested in the characters. I love a good mindless comedy but whenever I find myself actually caring for the buffoons, it makes the movie all the better.

I maybe have a few complaints about the movie but they're minor and not even worth mentioning. Though I can't see how I could help anybody with complaints about the time travel technology presented here. If you find yourself having major problems with all the logistics of the men traveling through time in the hot tub, please read this carefully: YOU'RE WATCHING THE MOVIE WRONG.

Hot Tub Time Machine comes to DVD and Blu-Ray June 29th (my birthday, by the way, if you feel like sending me a copy, hint), and hopefully it will become a home video hit. I know there's plenty of people- particularly the ones who saw it and really enjoyed it- that are baffled that this movie didn't end up making "Hangover money." It's too bad, but some movies find brand new life on home video and I can see that happening with this movie. You know, throw a cheesy 80's theme party, pop this baby in, maybe take some shots whenever you think Crispin Glover's bellboy character is about to lose his arm, and you got yourself a fun night.

Hot Tub Time Machine: everything the title promises and more. It may not be cinematic excellence but it's a solid comedy, and a feel-good movie that I could honestly watch over and over again.