Review of Grimsby (2016) by Johnny T — 27 May 2016

The Brothers Grimsby showers viewers with a steady stream of Sacha Baron Cohen's edgy humor, but too many gags hit the wrong side of the line between audacious and desperate. Baron Cohen's unflinching ability to play dumb is still good for a few chuckles, making some of the film's funniest moments out of its most innocent quips. Strong is impressively game for playing straight man to his co-star's antics. However, the supporting cast is wholly wasted, including Rebel Wilson as Nobby's beloved, Penelope Cruz as a philanthropic actress and Isla Fisher as one of Sebastian's spy crew. Especially egregious: having talented Oscar nominees like Gabourey Sidibe and Barkhad Abdi around just to play a maid and a drug runner respectively. Baron Cohen's brilliance in character comedy has created some glorious movies, but the character route is now coming to an end. This unique talent needs to take another direction. However, if mile-a-minute sex jokes, mistreatment of the disabled, and cringe-worthy semen sight gags do it for you, then you are well on your way to loads of enjoyment. Grimsby fails in its satirical mission due to a hodgepodge of generic action and ill-advised comedy. It may occasionally shock a laugh from you, but between those moments your face will be a rictus of horror.

VERDICT: "Not So Hot" - [Negative Reaction] These films are truly terrible films. They are not the worst things ever made, but they are definitely awful and should not be seen by anyone. (Films that are rated 1.5 or 2 stars).