Paul Blart: Mall Cop

Review by Gareth Von Kallenbach

Paul Blart (Kevin James) is a man with a dream.

Paul dreams of being an officer with the New Jersey police, but thanks to his hypoglycemia, and weight, he has had a difficult time passing his requirements.

After his latest failure (which concludes with him passing out inches from an obstacle course finish line) Paul hits rock bottom.

His daughter and mother encourage him to get on with his life and look for a woman who will make him happy (it seems his ex-wife only wanted him so she could gain citizenship) in hope that new opportunities might arise.

The fact that the holidays are coming up is of little consolation either, as Paul focuses on his career as a security guard at a local mall where he has worked from the past ten years, as well as a feeble attempt to get closer to the lovely Amy (Jayma Mays) who works at one of the mall's boutiques.

When the bad guys eventually make their move, Paul is indisposed and is easily overlooked, which in turn keeps him in the dark about what is really happening. Eventually Blart learns what is going on (and that his Amy is amongst the hostages) he must muster up the courage and new abilities in order to save the day and rescue Amy.

What follows is a madcap, though slight, romp which while not big on over-the-top laughs has more than enough smiles to keep you amused along the way.

Kevin James is entertaining as the hapless Paul Blart, but isn't given much to work with in his first starring role with a story that is very formulaic and somewhat restrained  - which doesn't really allow him to fully display his comedic skills as he did in The King of Queens.

Produced by Adam Sandler's Happy Madison company and co-written by James and Nick Bakay, Paul Blart : Mall Cop isn't a bad film.

Sure, I had hoped for more (after all, the premise is rife with possibilities) but ultimately the film comes across as playing it safe rather than taking chances.

There is very little that comes off as offensive in the film so it is appropriate for most families, which despite the flaws, makes the film a pleasant if not memorable diversion.

3 out of 5

Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Australian release: 19th March, 2009
Official Site: Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Cast: Kevin James, Keir O'Donnell, Jayma Mays, Raini Rodriguez, Shirley Knight
Director: Steve Carr