Review of Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004) by Kevin P — 04 Nov 2018

Strengths: It sounds simple enough, but this movie excels because itâ(TM)s funny. A comedy that is flat out funny is sometimes all you need. Thatâ(TM)s not to say the story doesnâ(TM)t work. The two main characters go on quite the journey and grow over the course of the film. John Cho (Harold Lee) and Kal Penn (Kumar Patel) are both strong as the leads. The characters both become better, stronger people by the end of this adventure and their friendship is more solidified. As noted though, the comedy is just great. There are so many hilarious bits and itâ(TM)s the kind of movie where youâ(TM)ll notice small hilarities on each subsequent watch. Neil Patrick Harris (Himself) is the most memorable side role, but thereâ(TM)s also great moments from Anthony Anderson (Burger Shack Employee), Jamie Kennedy (Creepy Guy), and Ryan Reynolds (OR nurse). Christopher Meloni (Randy/Freakshow) is unrecognizable in a hilarious cameo that is among the more memorable in the movie.

Weaknesses: There are several things that happen which go a bit far for laughs and they miss. The hang gliding scene, riding the cheetah, and breaking out of prison are all a bit over the top. Parts of those jokes work, but others miss the mark. The same goes for a few of the more gross jokes.

Overall: A hilarious movie with some surprising heart to it. Itâ(TM)s wacky, over the top, and one of those films where youâ(TM)ll always have a good time watching it.