Stunting it With Rod

Review: Hot Rod (2007)

By Meg Davy

What two things do the John Wick movies and Hot Rod have in common? Ian McShane and some sweet stunts. Previously before watching this, I watched all three John Wicks with my family in a row, so it was great seeing Ian McShane go from playing the classy Manager of the New York Continental Hotel to playing the the stepfather of the ambitious stuntman, Rod, whose goal is to beat his stepfather in a fight no matter what.

Hot Rod, a comedy that follows the life of Rod, played by Andy Samberg, and his friends who help him achieve his dreams of becoming the greatest stuntman. In my opinion, this movie is simply too underrated. It's comedy is so dumb that it's hilarious. Throughout the movie, there were definitely lots of laughs from everyone in the group, especially during Rod's classic falling scene as he stumbles his way down a hill for what feels like forever (also reminded me of a certain John Wick Chapter 4 scene).

Rod's friend group has a super fun dynamic and each of their characters differ so much yet work together so well to create the ultimate comedic group. Further, the physical humor in the movie is great because Rod never actually lands a single one of his stunts. This creates many hilarious fumbles and falls that have everyone grimacing and laughing at the same time.

Overall, it was a super fun and casual watch for those days where you just want to have a good laugh.