What's the Worst that Could Happen

Review by By Clint Morris

You wouldn't normally suspect comics, Danny De Vito and Martin Lawrence, of having much chemistry, and they don't, but it's enough to make their first teaming a humorous enough affair. And although not the funniest film of the year, even the month, the two work so well together that they are forgiven for every cringe-worthy moment in this cheesy comedy.

Firstly, It's great to see Danny DeVito back in a reasonably good comical role. I know he is only riding on the coat tails of Martin Lawrence (and his 15 minutes of fame) but DeVito is back playing the kind of conniving, slimy characters he's famous for in films like "Ruthless People" and "Throw Momma From the Train".

A professional thief, Kevin (Lawrence), is on a lucky streak. He has conned his way around some art dealers - scoring a new lover in return - and then gets a big time chance to rob a filthy-rich man, who is apparently not even home. What could be easier?

Ends up the man, Max Fairbanks (De Vito), is very much home and has the fine company of an attractive young woman. Just before the cops drag Kevin away for trying to rob the house, Max spies Kevin's good-luck ring and decides to claim it as his own. Only problem is, this is the ring which Kevin's new love has given him, and facing jail isn't nearly as bad as facing the woman at home.

"What's the worst that Could Happen" chronicles a battle of two oversized egos. The two leads are obviously having a great time working together and, although the material is far from premium entertainment, they both manage to do the screenplay justice.

A fine support cast includes John Leguizamo, in a good turn as Kevin's criminal sidekick, and an over-the-top - yet hilarious - turn from William Fichtner as an outlandish gay Police Detective, decked out in coat tails, fancy hat and silver grey hair. Whilst it mightn't be fully deserving of the ticket price, "What's the worst that Could Happen" will compensate for the over-priced popcorn.

3 out of 5

What's the Worst that Could Happen
Australian release: Commences November 22nd
Director: Sam Weisman.
Website: Click here

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