Pineapple Express

If this summer has taught us anything (besides the fact that comic-book movies are back for good), it’s that the name Judd Apatow practically guarantees a blockbuster.

“Pineapple Express” is no exception. Effortlessly combining the stoner genre with an action-packed thriller, the film manages to pay tribute to both while staying original.

The plot, while it won’t be putting Tarantino out of business any time soon, does what it needs to. That is, put Apatow’s usual cast of cronies is as many improv-inducing situations as possible.

Whether it is Seth Rogen and James Franco waxing about their newfound friendship, or Gary Cole and Rosie Perez alternating their desires for each other with murderous impulses, the film has enough give-and-take to make anyone crack up.

As a twenty-something process server with an 18-year-old girlfriend, Rogen requires massive amounts of cannabis to get through his day.

His dealer (Franco) is the closest thing he has to a friend, which is the reason Rogen hides at his place after witnessing a murder.

The addition of action allows Seth Rogen to flex his acting muscles, and he does a passable job of being furious, scared to death or overcome by emotion.

The comedy is also much more phycisal than previous Apatow films. There is plenty of witty back-and-forth, but there are slapstick scenes that are done with such reality that it makes the viewer laugh and cringe at the same time.

It seems that every Apatow move brings another potential comic superstar to the forefront. Last year it was McLovin, this year is Red. Played by the previously unknown Danny McBride, the invincible Red steals almost every scene he’s in.

When you consider he’s trading lines with as many established actors as there are in the film, his performance is even more impressive.

Almost every bit player in a Christopher Guest, Adam McKay or Apatow flick is given their zingers, and the result is a comedy that feels very familiar, but new at the same time.

There is plenty of gore, plenty of violence and more than enough f-words, but the film shows just how easy it is to make a funny movie when you cast funny people. The sense of comic timing between all the cast members is excellent, and the lines that are in the cutting room floor must be just as good.

It even resists the temptation to become a straight spoof of the action genre. It uses a few clichés, but only in carefully measured doses.

Quite simply, if you want to see a funny, obscene movie featuring funny, obscene people, then this movie hits the spot.

Rating - $10.00