REEL CRITIC: ‘Nights’ seems funnier than it is

Do you like Will Ferrell and stupid comedies? If so, hop in your car and speed down to the theater to see, “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.” If you prefer highbrow material and serious cinema, keep on cruising and pass this movie on the left.

Ferrell stars as NASCAR driver Ricky Bobby and his story takes place in the redneck world of stock car racing. Ricky’s ballad is told from childhood to racing superstar in a brisk 105 minutes.

Is the movie funny? I can’t lie, it is, but it’s not a classic. Most of the comedy is uneven but Ferrell’s performance smooths everything out and the laughs never stop, except for the occasional dramatic pit stop.

“Talladega Nights” requires absolutely no brainpower and that’s part its charm. You can literally check out and dive into your popcorn because none of the jokes will be over your head. My screening was packed with people just like me. The girl on my left, who was definitely not a member of MENSA, laughed nonstop. She also needed a shower, but who am I to judge.

Whether people realize it or not, the film makes fun of NASCAR and fans of racing. The NASCAR culture is ripe for humor but the filmmakers missed the mark and the script seemed rushed and incomplete. Ferrell’s performance saves the film. You can tell he’s having fun and the audience is along for the ride.

The supporting cast is not the greatest, but John C. Reilly is wonderful as “Mike Honcho.” The beautiful and talented Amy Adams is underused, but steals many scenes with her charm.

The cinematography and special effects are first-rate and the musical choices also added a nice touch to the experience. Real TV race announcers are used to describe the on-screen action and this gives the film a definite pole position over previous racing comedies like “6 Pack” or “Stroker Ace.”

My biggest complaint is that the film is rated PG-13. By playing it safe and kid friendly, many of the gags just don’t work for adults. This is frustrating because you can tell the studio altered the material to steer clear of the dreaded R rating.

Here’s my theory. “Talladega Nights” is actually not that funny but it seems funnier than it really is because comedies are so bad these days.

Until Hollywood fixes this problem, feel free to park in front of the screen for a night of mindless, full-speed fun.