Starsky and Hutch (2004): Dir: Todd Phillips / Cast: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Snoop Dogg, Jason Bateman: Yet another 1970's T.V. show resurrected for the big screen. It is not a total failure although it will be most appreciated by those whom remember the TV show or those whom are fans of the stars. It stars Ben Stiller as Starsky, a no nonsense cop who goes by the book. Owen Wilson plays Hutch who breaks the rules. The two are paired as partners investigating a cocaine deal. Not much of a concept but the structure is detailed with many funny moments. Ending is typical but director Todd Phillips seems to have timing on his side with regards to the humour. He previously made Old School and the horrid Road Trip. Great chemistry between Stiller and Wilson whom are either at odds or botching up the case. We know where this is headed but despite the conventions there are colourful supporting roles by Vince Vaughn as the drug lord, and Snoop Dogg as Huggy Bear whom offers underground assistance. Jason Bateman plays Vaughn's partner in crime in yet another comic turn. This is better than one may anticipate but hardly a masterpiece. It serves as a resurrected T.V. cop show that is not as celebrated in 2004 as perhaps others programs at its initial run was but it is still quite funny taking the buddy cop premise into exhaust overdrive with superb comedic performances. Score: 6 / 10
Review of Starsky & Hutch
