The Lost City

The Lost City is a comedy that the older kids and parents can enjoy. While at times it can feel overly raunchy or campy, the movie pulls together a fun time you can turn your brain off too. I went in to this Paramount film expecting it to be horrid but to my surprise I actually found myself laughing on multiple occasions. That's a bit shocking given comedies fall low on my liking. However this film isn't without its flaws.

Sandra Bullock tries to play a funny lead actress and while I love her previous work, this role feels like a phone-in. Channing Tatum steals every scene he's in with his classic comedic charm, but he brings an interesting sense of depth to his character. Daniel Radcliffe has played villains before but this one feels underwhelming. He never feels like a real threat to anyone. The brief use of Brad Pitt in his supporting role is appreciated and charming. I am glad he wasn't used more than needed, it helped his role.

The look of the film has a very "Paramount" feel to it. If you've seen Dora and the Lost City of Gold you'll know what I'm talking about. The colors they use, the jungle set designs feels mostly fake but you don't notice it much because you'll spend more time laughing or cringing at Channing and Sandra's awkward chemistry. I wish this movie spent more time exploring the Lost City itself and less on the jungle as a whole. The film doesn't really make each part of the jungle stand out from one area to the next, it's all trees, trees, and more trees.

As I said in the previous paragraph, the chemistry between Channing and Sandra is awkward, part of this could be the roles they're in or the actors not giving it their best. Radcliffe tries to be menacing but fails on all accounts. The plot doesn't help as it gets a little jumbled halfway through and has a sloppy ending. My favorite parts of this movie come when Brad Pitt enters and does his thing, which I won't spoil here.

When I left the theater I was going to give this film a higher score but after consideration while writing this review I have to score this film a 6.5/10. This is a "turn your brain off" type of comedy where you know it's not meant to be great but when you go in with no exceptions it actually is a fun watch! It has humor for both adults and older kids so the family unit can all enjoy. I hope you all enjoy this film if you plan on seeing this film this weekend at your local theater!