Here Comes the Boom: Movie Review

Don’t let the fact that Kevin James’ new movie, Here Comes the Boom, is from the makers of the disappointing Paul Blart: Mall Cop deter you. This new family-friendly film, starring The King of Queens actor, is quite funny, inspirational and full of heart and faith.

THE MOVIE IN A MINUTE

Biology teacher Scott Voss (Kevin James) is even less thrilled to be in class than his students. But when school administrators threaten to cut the music program, Scott gets involved, standing up for band teacher Marty Streb (Henry Winkler). With $48,000 needed to cover the program costs, Scott impassionedly vows to help raise the money in time. There’s just one problem – he has no idea how to do it. That is until he’s introduced to mixed martial arts and the cash he could win fighting.

THE GOOD AND BAD IN HERE COMES THE BOOM

Emmy-nominated actor Kevin James wins your heart in this new flick, which he also wrote and produced. Joining him on screen is veteran comedy actor Henry Winkler (Fonzie from Happy Days). Oscar-nominated actress Salma Hayek and a list of MMA fighters and trainers also lend their talents to this new picture from Happy Madison, the production house started by comedian Adam Sandler.

The comedy, though at times cliché and juvenile, never stops. And sure, Here Comes the Boom is predictable, but who wants an inspirational film about a teacher fighting for his kids to turn out badly? This new feature film from Sony Pictures isn’t full of plot surprises or ground-breaking dialogue, but it is genuinely inspirational, a testament to the movie’s message of never giving up, even in the face of incredible obstacles.

The comedy and inspiration this film offers aren’t its only positives. Co-writers James and Allan Loeb (The Dilemma) include two significant scenes where heartfelt prayers are spoken. These faith moments solidify the encouraging message of Here Comes the Boom, making it a movie folks should go see.

Parents of young children should exercise caution, particularly because of the film’s MMA fighting scenes. The caged bouts in Here Comes the Boom are realistically portrayed and blood is shown, though it is not gory (hence the PG rating).  This rating is also due to some rude humor and language used in the film.

IN THE END

Kevin James offers audiences a funny and hopeful movie experience with Here Comes the Boom, reminding us that with faith and perseverance we can take down any Goliath.