Exit_of_99c_Special

As mentioned in the title, this is another story by Pat Proft who has written for all a few serial comedies, including the last two Scary Movie films. Stop here if you don't like these types of films as you most certainly won't like this movie either! To be honest, I own both Hot Shot films. This is not because I love them, it is more that I know that if I need some head cleaner these can do the trick. Comedies that have crazy plots and over the top characters which won't win Oscars, but should be entertaining enough when the mood is right.

Over the years, a few other programs have made direct references to this film. One was a kids program that re-enacted the 'scary ghost' scenes almost verbatim. As I was channel surfing, I had no idea what the program was, but needless to say, this film inspires.

I first saw Lucky Stiff in parts while on tour in Delaware. This night had a lot of partying involved, and having this film on was perfect. For years, me and one of my band mates sought this film. I finally nailed it down and bought it as a birthday gift. That copy was lost on a subsequent birthday house fire.

Now, with the DVD available, we have it once again and can rejoice in splendor of the quips, gags, and creepiness of this film. I suggest to those of you who can enjoy the Naked Gun or Hot Shot series to give this one a try. The DVD is cheap to buy online, so get it before it goes out of print! I give this a high rating for what it is against those who pan it for not being 'Gone with the Wind' or something of that caliber. I would truly offer a 6 star rating otherwise.

Imagine yourself at a party. Across the room walks in a vision that you can't turn away from. You slide up to become better acquainted, and the first impression is wonderful. Making an evening of this, you find that the beauty is as superficial as anyone else in the room, and not the dream you wished for.

That gleaming sight married with the average is this movie. It really has the looks. The special effects are convincing enough. The scenery might just be enough of a reason to watch this film. However, the biggest miss was the story following along the formulaic path that Hollywood has already set in stone.

The character building in the beginning backfired on me. The main character didn't come of as a friendly prankster, but rather like a school yard bully. After we find out the purpose of his 'quest', we see his actions become defensive as he runs from his newly found troubles. These troubles wind up being the whole purpose of the story.

As others have commented, the beginning bests the end. That leaves many feeling good overall rather than great. I did enjoyed the film for what it was. I admit, the criticism I offer doesn't balance enough positive against the negative. Let me point plainly in saying: It's a good action fantasy film which pits the bad guys versus the good guys (yet again) -- but in a visually appealing way.

Of the hundreds of films I own, this one will never make it to my collection. It is a flash in the pan that will dim when the novelty of its splendor fades.

Right from the start, I didn't like any of the characters in this film. It didn't help that the film was a glorified skateboard video.

A brief explanation of my tastes: I love b-films, campy titles, and movies that target my special brand of entertainment. This failed to hit the mark.

While viewing the initial scenes, which had no point, I drew my first assumption. The character being glorified walking on rooftops, skating about, and just being present for no reason was to be the director/writer/actor. Sure enough, it was. The problem with one person doing so much is the lack of outside perspective. This film could have benefited from someone else being the director, writer, or actor than 'Bam'.

The characters in this story are for the most part highly obnoxious and annoying. The lead character is a pathetic 'dumpee' who whines about it for the whole film. There are a string of other players who range in annoyance.

Oddly, one of my favorite characters was the most annoying, played by Raab Himself. He played his part in a very convincing fashion making every scene he was in uncomfortable. I related to the character with a feeling that I kinda wanted to try and help this simple minded kid.

I'm struggling to say something good about this film, a reason why I voted 3 stars and not 1. I can't say exactly, but there were a few things in this film that elevated it from being unwatchable.

What this film made me feel is 'When is this over?'. I wouldn't suggest this film to anyone.