And now, we can add one more to the list: David Schwimmer.
The
former sitcom star has switched his '$1 Million An Episode' acting cap
for that of the directors chair - and it seems it was the perfect move
for the former TV paleontologist to make, because Run Fat Boy Run is a sure fire winner.
Five
years ago Dennis (Simon Pegg) was at the alter about to marry Libby
(Thandie Newton), his pregnant fiancée. But with moments to go - he
gets colder feet than Tony Bullimore and runs for the hills. Years
later, Dennis is down and out (... of shape) and soon discovers that
Libby has found a new man in high-flying-go-getter Whit (Hank Azaria).
In an effort to win her back and prove that he isn't the quitter
everyone knows him to be - Dennis enters a marathon (the same one as
'The Perfect Man' Whit) and soon finds out that "breaking through the
wall" takes more than sweat, blood and tears.
This is pretty
much as good as a light heartened comedy can get. It's funny, it's got
heart and there are at least two shots of a bare arsed Dylan Moran.
The cast is just superb. It's the best of the best of British comedy including the aforementioned arsey Moran, Little Britain's David Walliams, The Extras' Stephen Merchant and of course UK comedy's Golden Child - Simon Pegg (of Shaun of the Dead fame).
Also in toe is the utterly gorgeous Thandie Newton (best know from M:I:3) who gives new meaning to the word radiant, while Hank Azaria (the voice behind The Simpsons) delivers once again as the irresistible "Other Man" (who he has successfully played in EVERYTHING from Along Came Polly to American Sweethearts).
While it's certainly not breaking any new ground in comedy or film, Run Fat Boy Run
hits every beat and is timed to perfection.
The laughs deliver (keep an
ear out for some absolute gems from the TV commentator at the end), the
cast deliver (Pegg is such a likable 'Every Man' that his future is set
in stone), the soundtrack delivers (tracks from the Kaiser Chiefs and
Ok Go are used to perfection) and the director delivers (Schwimmer has
perfectly captured the essence of British life & humour, yet still
made a touching and accessible film for a world wide market).
While
it was a big hit in the UK, the flick couldn't muster up a crowd in the
US or Australia when it hit cinemas - let's hope this gem finds an
audience on DVD. Because it's a classic.
Consider this running race won! EXTRAS
There are some great extras on here, which is great to see - because lately DVD extras have been a bit lacklustre!
Included
here are the regulars, Feature Commentare and Deleted Scenes (although
the bonus of this is that you get the star power of Pegg and Schwimmer).
There
are some great Outtakes as well as the must see "Goof Reel" which shows
you just how good some of these UK comedians are. It's truly
astonishing to see so many of them assembled in the one place.
A great package - easily in the Top Ten releases of 2008.
Conclusion:
Movie 85% Extras: 60%
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