Review of Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006) by Alex R — 28 Aug 2011

Of all the films that Will Ferrell has made, Talladega Night is one of my personal favorites. I thought the film was very funny, and was a lot of fun. The film works well because there's a good cast starring opposite Ferrell.

First off, I don't hate Farrell, I find him to be repetitive, and I did not like whatsoever films such as Anchorman, Semi Pro, Blades of Glory and Step Brothers because I felt he was basically playing the same character.

But he does make me laugh at times, I enjoyed him in Old School (hell he was the reason he made film watchable), Night at the Roxbury and The Other Guys to name a few. Also I really did enjoy him in this film as well.

This is a fun comedy that has plenty of funny parts. The cast opposite Ferrell are just as crazy as he is. A notable performance is that of Gary Cole as Reese Bobby, Ricky Bobby's (Ferrell) alcoholic semi professional race car driver and amateur tattoo artist.

Another worthy performance is that of Sasha Baron Cohen who is eccentric in the role of gay French race car driver, Jean Girard. The film isn't perfect, but for the most part, it's a fun filled comedy with good laughs.

I really enjoyed this film and I think it's because of the terrific cast who all deliver something wacky on screen that really makes the difference. Talladega Nights is a film that's not meant to be taken seriously whatsoever, if you're expecting a clever, witty and smartly crafted film, you won't find it here.

Of every one of Ferrell's clichéd films, this is the film that I enjoyed the most. A good little comedy for what it is, but nothing great or "genius" as his diehard fans would say.