What Goes Up

Perfectly awkward. Can one call a movie that? This is a perfect follow-up to Hamlet 2 for Steve Coogan. They are practically the same character. Interesting choices Mr. Coogan.

One of the points of this story is that teen angst may never go away. Some adults never grow out of it. The backdrop of this story is the Challenger shuttle disaster, but it really has nothing to do with the story. And hopefully has nothing to do with the real events at the time.

This movie gets more interesting as it goes along. As each character evolves they become more complex. I found myself actually wanting to find out how the story ends. About half way through the story I actually started caring about the characters. If you can be patient, you may find the same thing being true for you.

Coogan is actually very good here. The supporting cast of kids is also enjoyable. Especially Olivia Thirlby. Where did she come from? Hillary Duff plays one of the kids in the story and does a very credible job.

While this is not a great movie, it is a good one. It makes you think. Who knows what the writer/director was thinking.

Watch this movie with someone who loves abstract thinking.

Hamlet 2

If you like irreverent, not-so-subtle, loser-centric comedies, you will probably like this. If you liked Napoleon Dynamite this movie may take your forgotten teen-aged angst to a whole new level. And if you like South Park this story will probably make you smile a bit too.

Yes there us music but I bet you'll find yourself humming at least one of the two featured numbers. I can't stop.

Steve Coogan's character is so bad he makes anyone feel better about themselves. So, if you are feeling a little low, please watch this movie. I guarantee you will see a few more good things about yourself unless you are a volunteer high school drama teacher in Tucson, Arizona.

The rest of the cast is pretty much stock, but is well-played just the same.

I don't remember how many different groups or stereotypes are mocked, but plan on being offended by something. You may be tempted to stop watching or give up early. Don't.

Watch it with someone who will stay to the end and enjoy enjoy the payoff.