REEL CRITIC:

There are two significant groups of citizens who should take the challenge and see the new comedy “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan,” fans of Adam Sandler and people looking to escape the heat of summer.

Everyone else should save their precious cash, buy some gasoline and wait until this goofy little movie pops up on DVD.

Sandler stars as Zohan, an Israeli terrorist killing machine who wants to leave behind the brutality of war in the Middle East and become a hairdresser in New York City. By faking his death during a dangerous mission, Zohan is able to escape to America. He puts a strange plan into motion by working at a salon owned by a Palestinian cutie named Dalia.

Can Zohan live out his fantasy life of making people “smooth and silky,” or will his past catch up to him? How many shots of Zohan’s naked backside can you slide into a PG-13 movie? Which group will be most offended by the script, Jews or Muslims? In 113 minutes, you’ll get some laughs, a few answers and a Hollywood-style history lesson on why two groups of people hate each other so much.

“Zohan” is a disposable summer comedy designed to distract you from the problems of our world. That being said, the film serves its purpose, and my large audience was laughing from the get-go. Sometimes people are just numb from life and need an escape. That described my situation, and it was my motivation to see “Zohan.” When the movie ended, my problems were still waiting for me back in my rental car, but for two hours I had a decent time, even though I wanted more bang for my buck.

Time for a quick disclaimer: If you’re hypersensitive to the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict, there is an excellent chance you will be offended by “Zohan.” I never thought I’d see the day when a political statement would be mixed into an Adam Sandler movie, but there is a message woven within the plot that might actually teach moviegoers a lesson about what’s happening overseas. As usual, I’m reaching, but it’s open for discussion.

The acting is tough to critique since it’s all over the place. Zohan’s much-maligned accent is also rather unique. You’ll either love it or hate it, but you must hear it to believe it.

Numerous cameos from Sandler’s famous friends are sprinkled in for good measure. Spotting these performers adds a little excitement when the jokes fall flat. Veteran thespian John Turturro plays Zohan’s nemesis and wears sunglasses for the entire production. I’m not sure if this was a character choice or maybe he didn’t tell his manager or wife he was in the film.

Technically, things are smooth for a comedy, and the low-budget special effects add some charm to the proceedings. The dance-inspired soundtrack reminded me of a typical nightclub in Glendale, and the song choices are harmless enough.

“Zohan” is a guy’s movie, and the female characters are just eye candy for teenage boys. The talented Emmanuelle Chriqui plays the romantic lead, but if you’re looking for a love story, you’ll be disappointed. The most amazing part of “Zohan” are the numerous scenes where Sandler goes shirtless for a laugh or some sexual high jinks with senior citizens. The 41-year-old actor is in excellent shape, and if I were his agent, I’d be trying to secure him a buddy cop flick with Matthew McConaughey set in the Bahamas.

Sandler’s movies are an acquired taste, and I’m usually a big fan of his work. Just like an old plate of hummus, “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan” filled me up but left a bad taste in my mouth that will linger until next weekend.

?MATT BELLNER is an actor from Burbank. ?MATT BELLNER is an actor from Burbank.