Review of Hot Tub Time Machine (2010) by Russell G — 07 Mar 2014

Four guys going back in time by way of a magic hot-tub time warp may sound too silly, but this is a just a simple plot device to set up a surprisingly enjoyable adventure. The rest of the movie is not so ridiculous; in fact, it cleverly makes fun of the fuzzy logistics and absurdity of how they got back in time at all.

Time travel is very important to the success of this movie. Rather than just settling for the simple novelty a mid-80s setting this movie goes further by humorously reflecting on the 00s, joking about time-space paradoxes, and dives into the pasts youths of the characters.

This unlikely mismatch set of characters actually works very well together. Each of the four characters sets up a parallel story that later intertwine in a satisfying way. They must choose to protect the future they know or change things as they explore past triumphs and regrets of their youth.

The excellent cast solidifies this as a great comedy. Casting John Cusack is particularly comical, because his character pokes fun at the very movies that made him a star. Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, and Clark Duke are all very funny.

Small roles played by Crispin Glover, Chevy Chase, Lizzy Caplan and Collette Wolf really add significant value as well. This movie has thought put into the details, as it plays off of funny 80s pop culture references and makes lots of little jokes that give it excellent re-watch value.

The characters have depth; there is meaning and tenderness in it, but above all it a very funny good time.