film: review

> WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY

By John C. Lyons
Film Critic

Directed by: Jake Kasdan

Written by: Judd Apatow and Jake Kasdan

Starring: John C. Reilly, Jenna Fischer, Tim Meadows, Chris Parnell

Genre: Drama, Musical/Performing Arts, Thriller and Adaptation

Our Rating: 7/10

John C. Reilly is an amazing talent. But who would have ever pictured him starring in a rock music biopic? Probably some credit is due to “Mr. Comedy 2007” Judd Apatow, (he produced this one) who has really had a banner year. I have to say Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story serves up some good laughs and hilarious surprises throughout. And the audience reactions in particular to some of the film’s nudity were worth the price of admission alone. But about 2/3’s of the way in, the big joke just started to feel a little worn out and ultimately the movie starts dragging like many of those it’s trying to parody.

Highlights, aside from Reilly, are the supporting talent. Jenna Fischer, Tim Meadows, The Beatles, Elvis, and others that cross paths with Dewey Cox on his various rises and falls. The musical numbers are well written and performed – and hilarious! Apatow and company almost pulled this one off. There are many scenes I can’t wait to see on repeat viewings, but this crew has done better work overall. Still this is a must see for fans of 40 Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Superbad especially if you’re familiar with Walk the Line and Ray.

I saw this film at Cinemark’s Tinseltown 17 Theatres on Peach Street in Erie, PA. Click for showtimes.

related links:
Walk Hard - official site

MPAA rating: R
for sexual content, graphic nudity, drug use and language

length: 1hr., 36min.