Absolutely Anything (2015) User Reviews

Absolutely Nuts

[ghostjunk · 6/10 · 18 December 2015]

A group of aliens decide to put the fate of the world in the hands of one random guy by giving him the power to make anything happen as a test towards predicting the values of humanity.

British writer/director Terry Jones, known for his work with the hilarious Monty Python comedy group, returns with his first feature film in 19 years for Absolutely Anything, and it's absolutely perfect absurdity. From a hilarious talking dog to a series of unpredictable gags ranging from walking turds to the accidental annihilation of an entire classroom of kids, the film's unpredictable humor is completely nuts. But like a fine mix of chocolate-covered nuts, Jones makes sure none of the jokes ever become mean-spirited, ensuring the film maintains some refined substance through its mostly lighthearted antics. Just don't expect the same style of humor seen in his '70s comedic masterpiece Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Now I won't try and bring your hopes up with empty promises, considering this flick is far from being award-worthy. Any forms of deep character development or profound script elements are instead replaced with an extra dose of silly gags, but at least they're funny enough to justify their existence. Full of unexpected wit that cleverly mixes its comedic styles, Absolutely Anything had me laughing from start to finish. Obviously Simon Pegg deserves some recognition for this, considering he's the one that allowed the far-fetched situations come to life with impeccable comedic timing. The best parts are, of course, the trial and error associated with Pegg trying to figure out how to properly use his powers without having them hilariously backfire in his face. What will surprise audiences the most, however, is the fantastic voice work brought to Pegg's lovably annoying pet dog by none other than the late legend himself, Robin Williams. It's a little bittersweet considering it's his final roll, but it certainly comes with great pleasure to say it's a memorable one.

Thankfully I never bothered checking out the film's Rotten Tomatoes rating before watching it, because it's exceptionally low 8% critic approval might have persuaded me not to give it a chance. How the undeniably pointless Stan-Helsing or Kevin Smith's unfunny detective comedy Cop Out managed to get higher critic approval scores is beyond me. Maybe it's time people adjust the tracking on their VCRs and take the time to actually watch things clearly. Wait… People don't watch VHS tapes anymore? Oh… Well I guess we can't really blame the picture quality now can we? Hum… Perhaps my taste in movies has just relinquished in quality over the years? Or maybe my sense of humor just belongs in a Saturday morning cartoon? Either way, I'd like to think I'm not the crazy one.

Perfectly enjoyable film, just not outstanding or remarkable

[ArchonCinemaReviews · 6/10 · 19 November 2015]

Absolutely Anything is a funny enough light comedy that seems better thanks to its notorious cast but unfortunately is a bit subdued to 'wow'.

Simon Pegg plays Neil Clarke, an unassuming teacher who has a crush on his neighbor and hates his job and boss. Little does he know that aliens are circling the planet, ready to put it to the test. One lucky human gets the power to do absolutely anything, and if they use the power for good then great, if they use it for bad, well then the aliens blow up the planet. Seems fair enough.

For those Jim Carrey fans out there, the idea behind Absolutely Anything is strikingly similar to 2003's Bruce Almighty. But unlike the Americans, the Brits are far more restrained in their use of absolute power and complete command of the universe. Neil just wants the simple things, to mess with his friends and maybe improve his work and body sitch. In fact, the ways in which Neil uses his complete power is almost too restrained and basically ends up making the film feel like a missed opportunity.

There are several decisions the producers made that really optimized the film, like getting the Monty Python gang to voice the aliens and Robin Williams to voice Neil's pet dog Dennis. Between their comedy chops and Simon Pegg, it seems impossible for this film to be bland, but it is. It seems as though the film strictly follows the script, leaving very little improvisational wiggle room which is where all the aforementioned talents shine. The comedy of Absolutely Anything is fine, entertaining and delightful, but not memorable or laugh- out- loud funny either.

Ultimately, Absolutely Anything suffers from a lack of creativity and originality in its comedy. It is amusing but average, and in the sea of films released annually, you won't even give it a second thought.

Please check out our website for reviews of all the recent releases.

Little story about almighty power, when phrased correctly

[quincytheodore · 7/10 · 9 December 2015]

The absolute power of wish fulfillment has been connected to many beings, genie and god among others, but now even aliens can make one's wish come true. Absolutely Anything is a simple film blessed with nifty premise and charming charismatic lead in Simon Pegg. It's a light casual watch that surprisingly heartwarming and incredibly witty beyond the occasional quirky display, even though the premise doesn't have much depth.

Neil (Simon Pegg) is an ordinary teacher who has been given ultimate power by a group of aliens for the purpose of judging the entire earth. The plot and cast are rather familiar, including the love interest by Kate Beckinsale along with the usual best friend and silly talking dog. It's pretty hard to fail on delivering a talking dog, especially voiced by Robin Williams.

First and foremost, the humor is fun and fairly amusing. The script offers some ridiculous situations, often presenting these scenes for Simon Pegg to shine, and that he does. His character is utterly identifiable, wishing assortments of petty stuffs and ending up with stupid mistakes by simple poor choice of words. Some of these might feel overdone and the movie just goes for the boundary of safe route.

Pegg also seems like able to crate chemistry with the cast, and everyone is quite likable, aside from a few over-the-top moments for a couple of them. The movie doesn't venture into deep thought about absolute power or the logic of bending reality, it merely a mild enjoyment with nice characters, most of whom work in platonic relationship. One extra credit for the presentation is how the visual looks sophisticated, it uses the scenery of England and the special effects fairly well.

Absolutely Anything is a much humbler film than the title suggests, it provides ample of light entertainment with a commendable performance by Simon Pegg even if the premise feels outdated towards the end. Plus, having Robin Williams again, even in doggy form is a nice treat.

A forgettable comedy with a few laughs

[Gordon-11 · 22 November 2015]

This film tells the story of a teacher who suddenly finds himself having the power of making absolutely anything come true. He uses his power to make his life better, but it turns out that great powers come with great burden and responsibilities as well.

Simon Pegg's character unfortunately does not quite know how to use his new almighty power, and bumps into a lot of mistakes. The plot could have been entertaining, but I think the potential for a good comedy is not fully capitalised. The American soldier is quite funny, Kate Beckinsale as the love interest is engaging, but the alien subplot is quite ridiculous. I would rather the aliens have nothing to do with this plot! Otherwise, "Absolutely Anything" is a plain film with some laughs, but nothing very memorable.

Decent British comedy but not a classic

[Safcinexile · 6/10 · 23 August 2015]

Actually enjoyed this movie for what it was, a fairly decent British comedy, granted not a classic, but better than most recent American comedies that I have had to endure.

It has a very Monty Python feel to it, maybe that's related to the voices of the aliens and the director I don't know, but it was a refreshing change. There were some good laugh out loud moments, but a couple of times it felt a bit flat.

For me the scene stealer has to be dog voiced by the late great and very much missed Robin Williams.

Simon Pegg was his usual self, just Simon Pegg with super powers! Hoping to get off with the ever gorgeous Kate Beckinsdale, let's be honest if I guy like him gets a girl like her then he needs all the powers he can to help!

Not sure I will rush back to see it, but made a nice change to watch a comedy that wasn't full of the usual American vulgarity ie The Hangover etc.

A diverting time passer...from which I guess I expected too much.

[planktonrules · 6/10 · 6 August 2018]

When I first read about "Absolutely Anything" on IMDB, I was excited to see it. After all, it was directed by the late Terry Jones....and I adore almost all the post-Monty Python stuff he's done. His documentaries have been brilliant and I longed to see him direct yet again...plus he co-wrote the film. And, I was excited to see that five of the old Python actors were in the film. Ultimately, however, this all led to disappointment as most of the Pythoners were NOT physically in the film but just provided voices for some goofy aliens. And, while there is a quick cameo of Jones himself...it was just too quick. Plus, and I know this will sound awful, Jones turned out to be in horrible health when he made the film and he was suffering from rather severe Dementia. I have no idea how much this affected the movie...but surely it did.

The story itself is a silly thing where Neil (Simon Pegg) is suddenly given god-like powers in order for these aliens to test the human race. And, if he does poorly and acts selfishly, then the entire planet is slated for destruction. Naturally, Neil is dumb and does lots of dumb things with the powers but ultimately makes a great decision at the end.

In many ways, the film is like combining the old "Twilight Zone" episode "Mr. Dingle the Strong" (where Burgess Meredith is given Herculean physical power) and "Evan Almighty". The film IS enjoyable and it kept my interest...unfortunately, it also was nothing more than this and the Python reunion (of sorts...and without the deceased Graham Chapman) was a bust. Watchable and worth seeing...provided your expectations are not huge.

By the way, in a weird case of art NOT imitating life, there is one point where Neil's dog (voiced by Robin Williams) saves someone from committing suicide. Considering Williams himself committed suicide and the film came out well after this, it seem in questionable taste to have this scene.

Everything is perfect to its own place, By pressurizes you can't make yourself happy

[saykat-25166 · 7/10 · 17 March 2020]

A man who lead a simple life . He tries to write some exceptional novel , and goes to dream on about his thinking . Other hand he had a polite dog. Who liked to see the Tv series on about Rocket, Satellite even outside the world. But suddenly that man got a illusion of a power in him. And tried to be the happiest and most powerful person by any time.

But though he got fun by applying sudden but end of the day he noticed everything was any happiness. At last of the movie he transferred his power to his dog. And his dog dismissed that power forever. Then he leaded a better life again.

The short note of this movie is, You can't make happiness by your muscle power.Do your work properly you will be happy and you will enjoy your time every moment.

Harmless fun

[charleswjoke · 6/10 · 12 November 2015]

Watching the trailer gives you a pretty good idea how this film is going to turn out and thats not necessarily a bad thing. This movie set out to be a average comedy about a man who gets the power to wish anything. And this is the core of the movie. Simon Pegg is likable as always and serves as a good hearted doofus who gains extraordinary powers. The jokes are funny, without being too clever or too cheesy. The love story is serviceable without being boring and Rob Riggle who plays a jealous ex is pretty funny. This film doesn't revolutionize anything but its harmless fun. I enjoyed it and it was nice to hear Robin Williams once more who was pretty funny in the film, but I won't re watch it soon.

Absolutely disappointing

[MattBrady099 · 5/10 · 4 December 2015]

While I don't think it's "One of the worst movies ever made", or "appalling", as some critics have said. But I must say that I was really disappointed with Absolutely Anything, because I had such high hopes for this movie to be great just by the cast behind the movie and the director, but it didn't reach my expectations has I wanted. What's more sad is that this is the very last Robin Williams performance (He voices the dog in the movie).

Not once did I laugh or even smile. It was very predictable and not that original when it comes to the story. Simon Pegg dose make a likable main character and Robin Williams dose a great job voicing the dog named "Dennis". But what's more crushing is that The Monty Python crew were involved in making this movie, because they wrote it, stared in it and one of them directed it.

Overall Absolutely Anything isn't awful, but nowhere near great or good.

Absolutely fine.......

[FlashCallahan · 6/10 · 5 December 2015]

Aliens who travel from planet to planet to see what kind of species inhabit them, come to Earth. And if the inhabitants are decent, they are welcomed to be their friend.

If not, the planet is destroyed..............

To find, out they choose one person and give them the power to do whatever they want.

They choose Neil, a teacher who is constantly being belittled by the headmaster and is attracted to his neighbour, but doesn't have the courage to approach her.

But all that should now change.........

Aside from the debacle that was Burke and Hare, Pegg never really puts a foot wrong when it comes to choosing his roles, and even though this is just a throwaway piece of fluff, the British Bruce Almighty if you would, there is enough going on in such a short amount of time to forgive the films main shortcoming.......Rob Riggle.

His character is from a totally different film and has no business being here. He has nothing in common with any of the other characters, and appears to try to upstage everyone on screen by being just too over the top. He ruins the film with every scene with which he's involved, and nearly ruins the flow of the film.

Other than him, it's pretty pleasant stuff. Pegg can do the Everyman with his eyes shut, and he's such a vibrant, happy presence on screen, you never fear for his character or his shortcomings, because the man is just too endearing.

But because the film has so many characters, a lot of people are sidelined in way of being a punchline. Izzard is the biggest victim here, his motivation here is from being totally abhorrent toward Neil, to being his best friend. He's in the film for literally three scenes, and he's probably only doing it because He's such good friends with the Pythons.

And speaking of the Pythons, they just appear to be going through the motions, doing a favour for Jones, and appearing in voice only. For nostalgia though, it's essential for the Python completest.

Williams rounds up the legends here as the voice of Dennis, and unfortunately it's not his finest hour. Again, just lend in his voice to the proceedings. But again, the man puts so much energy and life into his work, it's still brings that Williams touch to such a short role.

It would have worked better as a thirty minute sitcom starring someone like Simon Bird, but it would have gone the way of My Hero and ended up as stale as last months bread.

But it's a high concept British movie, and these are very rare, and although it wasn't the most well received film this year, one thinks it will become a cult film in years to come, standing proud with the limes of Morons From Outer Space, and I Bought A Vampire Motorcycle.

Which is a compliment, honestly.

Worth watching.

So much potential wasted

[kuuk3 · 3/10 · 19 August 2015]

This film features a comedian cast list that could bankroll a small country. But even together they could not make a film I want to ever watch again.

I imagine their pay-cheques were so high, they could not afford to venture out of his apartment, as thats where 75% of the film is set. They have a few scenes in a school cafeteria and one in a studio for a TV show, but alas neither of them has Simon's character in them.

The talent they had available was exceptional and if Simon was given a scene on the talk show about the book he was apparently writing - it would have led to many great one- liners. But the scene never happened. If he had used his powers on the naughty students in his class, there is comedy gold to be had. But instead he just does nothing. Its as though there were tons of set-ups but sadly no pay-offs.

Since most the film is set in his flat, I have to believe its due to budget constraints after paying all the artists and animators. Even the world changing issue we only ever see through his TV set as a news report, and never actually see any of it.

Then we have Kate, who is a 10 in anybodies rating, and Simon who is not even in her Universe. She felt so out of place in this film. You could tell she had three hours of makeup before every scene and her pedestal lifted her well beyond the reach of Simons character. Nothing against Simon, but I just didn't feel any connection between them whatsoever - there was no romance, other than what we were being told. Then we have the fact that she had three guys making moves on her - she becomes nothing but a sex object. She had no purpose, plot, story and even her job which had ties to Simon was ignored. Its just who will be the first to rape her, and eventually it becomes the one person it shouldn't have been.

Speaking off the rape scene - it appears the editor realised their mistake and quickly edited in a cartoon excuse to try and soften the blow a little. But it was too little, too late. She even calls him out on it later, and then forgives him for it. Why?

God Almighty, this film is not. Limitless showed better use of his powers than this. Even Lucy had a better explanation for how they are received. It just felt like a rush production in all areas and they used up too much money on the cast, which could have been put to much better use travelling the world with the powers he had. His search for happiness continues.

Unique comedy

[tr91 · 8/10 · 7 December 2015]

To me, Absolutely Anything is a very unique comedy. This didn't seem like a film I would normally like, I figured aliens in a comedy would be pretty stupid. The 6.0 rating was also kind of off putting but I decided to give it a go as I generally like Simon Pegg films.

Simon Pegg plays schoolteacher Neil who lives home alone with his dog Dennis (voiced superbly by Robin Williams). Neil is chosen by a group of aliens as part of an experiment and is given the power to do absolutely anything. Chaos ensues as Neil begins to use his power.

There are a lot of very funny moments in the film such as walking turds, the dead rising and Neil changing his body while looking in the mirror. However most of the laughs come a little later on in the film when he gives his dog the power to speak. Robin Williams had me in stitches at various points with the way he described certain characters and kept talking about biscuits and sh*#*#* Kate Beckinsale plays Neil's neighbour with a lot of charm but thankfully the film doesn't focus too much on making the two of them a major love story. I came solely for laughs and that's what I got.

Overall it's a very funny & enjoyable film with a unique story. I feel it could have been explored further as there was plenty more that could've been done with the power. Could've easily been 30 minutes longer and I'd still find it funny, perhaps even a mini series could work but for now the film is very good as it is. Highly recommended for those in need of a laugh, as long as you don't take it too seriously and look for negative points. Just simply enjoy it for what it is.

8/10.

Entertaining Comedy with Robin Williams's Last Voice-Over Appearance

[tabuno · 7/10 · 8 January 2019]

14 November 2017. In the same vein as its previous incarnations, Bruce Almighty (2003) with Jim Carrey and Oh, God! (1977) with John Denver, Simon Pegg gets his chance at absolute power, but with the help this time of extraterrestrial superior beings in this romantic comedy. There are some really funny moments in this comedy yet the poignant, emotive bite doesn't quite as sting as much as possible. Robin Williams appears in voice over as the dog, in his very last movie to be released with his passing in 2014. Kate Beckinsale remains in great form from her Serendipity (2001) days while becoming the face of the Underworld franchise. Overall, this movie is an enjoyable entertaining experience without the deeper, richer moments that it was capable of.

What Could Have Been....

[dillonkoopmans · 5/10 · 9 February 2016]

I was pulled into this movie for its all-star cast and its premise. Absolutely anything could happen. With Simon Pegg, Eddie Izzard, the final cast role of Robin Williams, the Monty Python crew and Terry Jones at the helm, what could go wrong? The answer: absolutely everything.

To begin, the casting of male/female actors makes the viewer feel as though they are living in a world of attractive females and mediocre looking men. I guess that's fine. It worked for Monty Python. Not to suggest there is a better way to cast, however, it all felt pretty glaringly unrealistic to me.

About the comedic elements, although there were some unique laughs brought on by the originality of the screenplay, the whole movie was hard to watch. The lengths at which the CGI animation and set design went to accommodate the silliness of the story was entertaining, but it could hardly satiate the philosophical implications that the narrative proposes. As a viewer, you feel as though you are watching a writer getting away with settling on well-polished, sub-par ideas. Arguably, the bar is set high with a movie featuring a protagonist that can do anything, but still, blehhhhh.....

This film calls to a thinking audience. Yet, any intelligent person will soon find themselves bored with this movie for one reason or another. Although it is very unique, like any over-budgeted action movie, I was left wondering who gave them the money to make this crap happen?

The movie does brush on ethics, morality, the limitations of the human condition and the ramifications of having power over others, but so does Spiderman.... so watch that instead.

Naive, Idiotic and a missed opportunity...

[Dr_Sagan · 19 November 2015]

This is a movie in the fashion of Bruce Almighty starring the overestimated Simon Pegg. (The main character even has a dog who wishes to be potty-trained, like in the Jim Carrey movie).

What would you do if you were able to do "Absolutely Anything"? Well, you can easily do a couple of ...turds to go flush themselves into the toilet, or make your dog able to speak, or spy on your cute neighbor.

Most of the jokes aren't funny at all and are based on the literal meaning of Pegg's wishes like I want to be on the bus means on its roof etc. The lack of imagination of the main character is derived from the poor imagination and talents of its writers and creators.

Obviously in such a movie you need good visuals to produce the "mind-blowing" and extravagant possibilities, but the movie fails miserably in that department too.

This is the absolute worst thing Monty Python has ever done. Naive, Idiotic and a missed opportunity... Avoid it...

Some very weak areas

[neil-476 · 7/10 · 21 August 2015]

Neil (Simon Pegg) is a rather ineffectual teacher who lives, with his dog Dennis, upstairs from gorgeous Catherine who he secretly fancies. Neil is chosen by aliens to represent the human race: they give him the power to be able to do anything. If he does good, the human race survives: if not, it will be destroyed. Neil, of course goes for the trivial and selfish.

Co-written and directed by Terry Jones and featuring him and the other Pythons as the voices of the (nicely realised) CGI galactic council, this is an odd swansong for the Pythons after their O2 concerts. And it's also an odd film generally. A very British take on Bruce Almighty, some of it works, and some really doesn't. The stuff which works is the literal-mindedness of Neil's power – unless great care is exercised, he finds that what he wanted to happen is not exactly what he wished for – when he asked for a great body, he wasn't expecting it to be female, for instance. This is a problem all the way through, and it is always amusing. There were three elements which, for me, didn't work at all. One was a section about halfway through featuring some unnecessarily explicit conversation – this was completely out of place. This led to the second, which was Catherine's arbitrary decision to have sex with Neil. This seemed to have no logical basis other than plot convenience. And the third was Catherine's ridiculous delusional stalker/ex-"boyfriend" Grant (Rob Riggle), a character who seemed wildly unrealistic and out of place: considering the film featured 5 aliens called Maureen, Janet etc., that's saying something.

This is enjoyable, but not a classic.

Not that great, just okay to watch once

[deloudelouvain · 6/10 · 30 December 2015]

I like to watch a comedy in the afternoon, cozy in the couch, nothing to worry about and relaxed. When I saw that the crew of Monty Python was in it I thought I would get some of their absurd but hilarious humour. Well "in it" is a big word, because you only hear their voices, and the writer and director is also one of them (Terry Jones). But I was disappointed because there was no such humour in the movie. It still is a comedy but nothing to be excited about. It started really promising but the further you got in the story the script would get dumber. I didn't laugh a lot and as far as I know that's what it's all about in a comedy. It wasn't that bad either, just an average movie, good to watch once and then forget about it.

CAN I HAVE IT IN WHITE

[nogodnomasters · 7/10 · 5 July 2018]

Neil (Simon Pegg) is a teacher who dreams about his neighbor (Kate Beckinsale) and loves his dog (Robin Williams). When the film combines STAR TREK 1 and BRUCE ALMIGHTY, aliens give Neil absolute power as a test for the survival of all of mankind.

The film has potential and it had its moments. The absolute powers follow precise speech with no regard to consequences. I kept waiting for the film to get better and have the big laugh. It didn't happen. The high point was using the cast of Monty Python as the voices for aliens.

Guide: A couple of F-bombs. Brief nude female torso

Enjoy it for what it is..

[kieranbattams · 6/10 · 29 August 2015]

Simon Pegg has had 2 great films on his schedule this year with Mission Impossible Rogue Nation and Man Up. From the trailer this film looked very good. A British Bruce Almighty featuring Monty Python as aliens? Yeah safe to say i was on board. Whilst this film falls flat in many places and doesn't satisfy as much as its trailer i had fun with Absolutely Anything.

The story follows an average school teacher called Neil Clarke, played by Simon Pegg. Out of nowhere some eccentric aliens played brilliantly by the Python cast give him the power to do whatever he wants. If he succeeds in doing good they will spare the earth from destruction. Neil decides to use these powers to get the hot woman from downstairs along with help from his dog who he gives the power to talk. Robin Williams voices Neil's dog Dennis in what is his final role. It was nice to get to see the last project Williams worked on, Absolutely Anything doesn't give us the perfect goodbye to the screen legend, but seeing him in the end credits in person was emotional and put a smile on my face to see him joking and happy.

The film does have flaws. As i mentioned the aliens just appear from nowhere, what really didn't work for me though was the editing between their story and Neil's. You can tell Terry Jones directed this film because he uses the trick of cutting between the scenarios in a quirky way. Whilst this works with Monty Python, in a feature film with a plot such as this it felt weird and out of place. The story with Rob Riggle's character also wasn't needed. It made the film seem much longer than it was and the film should really have focused on the story of Neil and Kate Beckinsale's character. The real relationship to look out for though is of course Neil and Dennis. Williams and Pegg played off of each other very well and Robin Williams in particular stole every scene he appeared in which was great.

Overall Absolutely Anything isn't a great movie, but with a simple plot and a few laughs here and there i will say it is worth giving it a watch. Eddie Izzard has a small role which again was hilarious and gave him the power to steal his scenes as much as Williams. I feel with better editing and more of a focus on the main plot the film could have been better. I loved hearing the Python cast back for a reunion, but i honestly would have preferred to have just seen another Python film. Simon Pegg really keeps this film together with his likability so overall i give Absolutely Anything a 6.5/10

An unacknowledged remake of The Man Who Could Work Miracles.

[ferulebezel · 2/10 · 16 May 2022]

It's one of those rare instances of the remake being better than the original, but not by enough to justify actually doing it. The ancient gods are aliens and the travails of the man are different but the central conceit is the same, humanity being tried on the actions of one man being given magical powers. The producers owe the H. G. Wells estate and/or the original production company some licensing fees.

They also threw in some Monkey's Fist elements. At least in this case we're saved the preachiness of H. G. Wells and the ending was different than the original.

As long as they're doing pointless remakes of movies with Roland Young, Simon Pegg is probably around the right age to play Topper.

And Now for Something Completely Different

[zsenorsock · 7/10 · 21 May 2018]

This film deserved a better fate than the one it got--a quick release before disappearing into the void. The film isn't perfect by far but Simon Pegg makes a funny lead character, Kate Beckingsale is breathtakingly beautiful throughout and the Monty Python gang has a nice turn as well.

But the real surprise for me was Robin Williams. I have NOT been a fan and he's caused me more pain than laughs throughout his career. But in this, his final role, Williams is absolutely FABULOUS. He's funny and gives Dennis character a lot of heart. What a great way to go out.

A few reviewers have noted this is a "family friendly" comedy. But be aware there's a lot of unnecessary swearing that I found...well, unnecessary. But Jones delivers a script with more hits than misses and as a director keeps things rolling.

This is one that is well worth giving a try.

Absolutely average

[studioAT · 2/10 · 17 October 2016]

It's rare that a film disappoints so much as this one.

The main reason for this is because you see the talent involved. Simon Pegg! The Monty Python team! Robin Williams! All of whom sadly seem to have left their comedy timing on the bus on route to the film set.

This is childish, unfunny stuff from start to finish. It feels like a teen novel stretched too far, with a misleading array of stars conning you into thinking it will get better when it really doesn't.

Pegg's Mr Likable persona is getting tired, and the script doesn't help him lift this film beyond average.

The one small highlight is Robin Williams, who we all miss dearly. He steals every scene he's in.

A simple, silly, but funny and enjoyable family movie.

[Alexlionfire · 8/10 · 4 December 2015]

What should I start with ? Oh, yes, I don't really get the mediocre score and reviews for this movie. Yeah, it's not another Holymollywood show (thank heavens!), it's not amazing in any way, but it does great at being a simple, enjoyable and funny movie to watch with your family. Both Simon Pegg and Kate are lovely to watch here.

You can just sit, relax and have a fun time. It clearly doesn't try to be smart or serious, people should understand this. There's also a tiny but nice message in it, that once understood, makes a better image of it all. If you enjoyed "Hector and the search for happiness", you should give this one a try. We need more movies like this!

Completely ridiculous, and that's what makes it good...

[bheadher · 6/10 · 25 October 2019]

Typically irreverent as is common in British comedy, Simon Pegg does the genre to perfection...all while being the ignorant buffoon he loves to play. If you like stupid plots that have some saving moments, this would be it...

Good idea badly executed

[wackyfuncrazy · 2/10 · 10 September 2017]

Simon Pegg plays the same character in all of his films; it was funny in Shaun of the Dead but it grew tired quickly and bizarrely he still does it. Needless to say Simon Pegg's "everyman" character is every bit as annoying as it was the last dozen or so times he played it. I found myself transfixed more on his hair transplant than his lines.

The talking dog played by Robin Williams could have been done so much better. The lines the dog was given were like a cross between Dr Dolittle and What Women Want: "what if a dog could talk?! Oh I bet it would say how much it likes biscuits and wants to hump your leg!" Predictable bilge.

The "chemistry" between Kate Beckinsale and Simon Pegg was strained and unbelievable. There is no way that she would like or even consider Pegg's charisma-less neighbour. We also never find out why Rob Riggle's character liked her so much or the details of how they met. Speaking of Rob Riggle, I expected more from him really.

Eddie Izzard was completely bland in this. He can't act, he's not funny and he should stick to walking around in lipstick and his pink beret preaching the virtues of a "fair and equal society" while enjoying his millions like the rest of his celebrity peers.

The aliens were completely unnecessary and the "Monty Python" "team" playing them were humourless too. "Monty Python" was and never will contain an ounce of humour: just tired jokes and idiotic quirkiness.

The only saving grace of the film is the exploration of questions like what would happen if everyone had enough food that they wanted and a home they wanted. However, despite knowing the film was a "comedy", I found myself nitpicking for plot holes. I lost count of the number of times Pegg's dull character could've wished to improve things. On one occasion, his friend begged him to stop some woman literally worshipping him, which he could've done in a second but of course he was too busy so we were treated to more of this stretched out, unimaginative "joke".

The ending was also nonsensical. Why would the aliens give anyone enough power to destroy them? Very disappointing.