Sharp as Marbles tried to be Dumb and Dumber and failed. I rented it from Blockbuster only to regret wasting good money to do so. This had to be most unfunny stupid movie made. When you go for forced laughs that don't make people laugh there is a problem. I suspect this movie was written when a couple of people were either drunk or high. It must have sounded hilarious to them when they came up with Sharp as Marbles. I can't believe that this movie was made. It looked to me that money was spent making it. It didn't look like an amateur movie. What made it amateur was how unfunny it was. Skip renting this movie if you see it some place.
18 Reviews
Pretty bad
hensbroek5 August 2010
Possibly funny for a five or six year old with all the toilet humor. Not for anyone older though. The story, jokes and acting are all way below par. Also, there are a few disturbing stereotypes that some people might find offensive. Anyway, I can't say that I even smiled once, let alone laugh. I'm pretty sure all the good reviews are from people directly involved. There is just now way anybody objective and able to write can like it. Music is OK, a little bit hillbilly. The extra star I gave it is for the camera-work which is surprisingly good. The car scenes and the forest scenes were shot quite nicely. Kudos for the cameraman.
For Lovers of Bad Acting, Bad Editing and a Really Bad Script
natrc200318 December 2009
Capsule review: Worse than a youtube short.
A family film? Taking your kids to this one? I have a feeling that the positive reviews for this film were written either for another movie altogether or by a robot spam app.
Sharp as Marbles pretends to be a quirky, indy film but really is only a low-budget mess with horrible acting, terrible directing, clunky amateurish editing and a truly uninspired script. Clerks at a video store? Nope, never been done before.
I felt like I was back in grade school watching the annual play. These 'actors' really make you appreciate the real thing and how hard the profession truly is. The wooden delivery and stiff screen presence might have been acceptable if any of them displayed any sense at all of comedic timing. Sadly, they do not. I can only assume they're the director's buddies from college.
A decent director might have been able to save the film from its terrible acting by playing up on that a la John Waters, or at least through the editing, blotting out the dead spaces, awkward pauses, uncertain delivery and hesitant timing that kill each and every single 'joke' in this film.
Even a decent editing job, however, would not have been enough to save this movie from its script, which, really, displays so little originality that at least two dozen screenwriters could probably successfully sue the Marbles' crew for plagiarism. Why bother? Who green-lighted this movie? I'm going to assume here that the directors' uncle financed this garbage.
As much as I've always enjoyed independent movies and cult films, Sharp as Marbles cannot and should not be categorized among either. Instead, it's an amateurish effort that rivals many a youtube video.
It disturbs me that people claim to have taken their kids to see this film. There's nothing graphic about it sexually, of course, and the lead character's sleazy attempts at picking up girls are meant to be creepy, but really, I don't see any part of this movie that should be interesting for young kids.
Note: this review is for the first 35 minutes only. I could not get beyond that, sorry.
A family film? Taking your kids to this one? I have a feeling that the positive reviews for this film were written either for another movie altogether or by a robot spam app.
Sharp as Marbles pretends to be a quirky, indy film but really is only a low-budget mess with horrible acting, terrible directing, clunky amateurish editing and a truly uninspired script. Clerks at a video store? Nope, never been done before.
I felt like I was back in grade school watching the annual play. These 'actors' really make you appreciate the real thing and how hard the profession truly is. The wooden delivery and stiff screen presence might have been acceptable if any of them displayed any sense at all of comedic timing. Sadly, they do not. I can only assume they're the director's buddies from college.
A decent director might have been able to save the film from its terrible acting by playing up on that a la John Waters, or at least through the editing, blotting out the dead spaces, awkward pauses, uncertain delivery and hesitant timing that kill each and every single 'joke' in this film.
Even a decent editing job, however, would not have been enough to save this movie from its script, which, really, displays so little originality that at least two dozen screenwriters could probably successfully sue the Marbles' crew for plagiarism. Why bother? Who green-lighted this movie? I'm going to assume here that the directors' uncle financed this garbage.
As much as I've always enjoyed independent movies and cult films, Sharp as Marbles cannot and should not be categorized among either. Instead, it's an amateurish effort that rivals many a youtube video.
It disturbs me that people claim to have taken their kids to see this film. There's nothing graphic about it sexually, of course, and the lead character's sleazy attempts at picking up girls are meant to be creepy, but really, I don't see any part of this movie that should be interesting for young kids.
Note: this review is for the first 35 minutes only. I could not get beyond that, sorry.
Very Boring
rob_buell9 March 2008
I won't waste your time. This movie is horrible. I appreciate good family humor like anyone else. But I don't see how this qualifies. The acting was stiff and the characters were stereotyped. The health food store guy "Abdul" was probably the worst actor in the entire film, at least get a real middle eastern actor instead of a poor impersonation. I guess that they were going for a Dumb and Dumber type of interaction between the two lead characters, but they couldn't pull it off. The music was OK, but is that a reason to waste your time watching this movie? No! If you value your family time, go to a park or something, but don't use your time to watch this film with them.
I can go on, but why bother. Pass on this film.
I can go on, but why bother. Pass on this film.
Don't waste your time on this really BAD movie!!
jessicaparkens128922 January 2009
Oh boy. This has to be by far one the worst movies I have ever seen. The acting seemed lost and flat, but this could be the fault of the directing which was horrendous. The whole direction of the movie seemed very amateur. The camera work sucked. The only tolerable part of this movie was the music. I'm a huge fan of comedies especially low budget style ones like Napoleon Dynamite, I've seen them all. But at least a movie like Napoleon Dynamite had a sense of style, charm, and wit unlike this disaster. Lets hope these people never make another movie like this one ever again! I would not recommend this movie to anyone. Do yourself a favor and don't waste your time or money on this one!!
Surprisingly good
barbapapa-211 March 2008
I almost turned the movie off during the first few seconds because it's immediately noticeable that the movie has a pretty low budget (most low budget comedies out there suffer where it hurts most - the writing). There was something about the actor (George) that made me want to keep watching, though; he's an extremely funny guy who really "sells" the annoying/moronic/love-him-or-hate-him kind of character! There are some really hilarious bits in this movie. The writers did a fantastic job, as do the actors. It should be mentioned that the acting won't win any Oscars, but it fits with the style of the movie. They don't take themselves too seriously, but they always stay in character, so it really works.
This movie was featured on the front pages of some prominent torrent sites, which will actually help the guys behind the movie (writers, director, actors) get noticed in the future. They might not make quite as much cash as they would have due to a few lost sales, but the marketing got a huge free push.
I rated the movie a 7 out of 10. This figure is relative, though, to the style and budget of the movie. It was actually quite a bit funnier and interesting to watch than some of the comedies with popular comedians. I can't wait to see more from this bunch.
This movie was featured on the front pages of some prominent torrent sites, which will actually help the guys behind the movie (writers, director, actors) get noticed in the future. They might not make quite as much cash as they would have due to a few lost sales, but the marketing got a huge free push.
I rated the movie a 7 out of 10. This figure is relative, though, to the style and budget of the movie. It was actually quite a bit funnier and interesting to watch than some of the comedies with popular comedians. I can't wait to see more from this bunch.
Very funny movie!
mzanotto-128 December 2007
Sharp As Marbles is about three dumb video store clerks - Albert, Ernie and George who can't seem to stay out of trouble. Albert and Ernie are two lovable characters with hearts of gold, while George on the other hand only thinks of himself. The funny thing about this movie is, the more Albert and Ernie screw up, the more trouble George finds himself in. The movie follows the trio through numerous adventures, meeting lots of interesting characters along the way. (My favorites were Abdul the Indian store owner and the two punk rockers from the rock group GOB) Sharp as Marbles is a very funny movie with a great ending that will put a smile on your face. It's definitely a feel good movie.
Great film for the whole family!
NothingbutComedy20 March 2007
I took my kids to see the film "SHARP AS MARBLES" in Vancouver this weekend, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. My husband and I thought it was a very funny film which we thoroughly enjoyed. My kids loved every minute, and its all they have been talking about since.
The story itself was kind of basic but the characters were hilarious. Ten seconds into the film the theater erupted in laughter and it never stopped. Every scene was non stop laughter and the film got better and better as it went on. The ending was absolutely adorable.
Why this film was only playing in one theater I don't know. Its been a long time since my family enjoyed a movie this much. If you get a chance, you have got to check it out - especially if you have kids!
The story itself was kind of basic but the characters were hilarious. Ten seconds into the film the theater erupted in laughter and it never stopped. Every scene was non stop laughter and the film got better and better as it went on. The ending was absolutely adorable.
Why this film was only playing in one theater I don't know. Its been a long time since my family enjoyed a movie this much. If you get a chance, you have got to check it out - especially if you have kids!
Very entertaining, quirky and Funny all at the same time
techvibe27 February 2008
My friend recommended I check this movie out, mainly because we use to both work at a video store a few years back and he thought I would have a great laugh, and I personally laughed all the way through, I could tell it was a low budged film, but still enjoyed the wonky sound track, it worked really well for the show and the acting was OK, it was a comedy, I found it entertaining never the less, worth a look at if your into comedy, mainly because it had a feel of the movie Road Trip, that type of comedy, speaking of road trips... the part that they take there little road trip, that was by far the most funniest scene in the whole movie, the guy's really played well off one another. I found it to be funny, quirky and silly at times, but over all entertaining.
Fantastic Family Film
dharry21 March 2007
Finally a wonderful family film, and a great cast of very talented actors, you start to laugh right from the start and don't stop till the end. Simple story of 3 dumb guy's who work in a video store, and their journey through life as best friends. I would love to see this type of film in all the theaters so I can tell my friends back east to see it, I know they would really enjoy it. A film for ages 7-70, great direction and editing as well, overall a great Indenpendent film, The writing is very clever and at a quick pace. This is the type of film that can be seen over and over and you would still be laughing each time you saw it. Don't miss it when it hits the theaters.
Fun film
tiana_h17 April 2009
Warning: Spoilers
This is a fun film for any and all ages.
The poker scene with the bikers, Ernie's fight scene with the punk rockers, and the lost-in-the-woods scene (especially the car scene on the way to the woods), are all really hilarious. The rest of the film is just average. The acting is fairly well done, especially by some of the secondary or minor characters. The soundtrack is good and works well with the film. The story itself is a little weak, but it has a good ending that ties everything together well.
I gave the film a seven out of ten stars.
I wouldn't recommend buying it, but it's definitely worth a rental.
The poker scene with the bikers, Ernie's fight scene with the punk rockers, and the lost-in-the-woods scene (especially the car scene on the way to the woods), are all really hilarious. The rest of the film is just average. The acting is fairly well done, especially by some of the secondary or minor characters. The soundtrack is good and works well with the film. The story itself is a little weak, but it has a good ending that ties everything together well.
I gave the film a seven out of ten stars.
I wouldn't recommend buying it, but it's definitely worth a rental.
Film review
Clerks_Rules29 February 2008
Just rented this movie from Blockbuster last night, and I'll tell you, it's isn't what I expected. Not as adult oriented at I thought (no nudity, etc.). Can you believe it - lots of hot chicks, and none of them take their clothes off. I realize it's a $200,000 production and was filmed in under two weeks, but come on, if you're gonna have hot chicks, at least show something.
The first half of the film was a bit slow, but the second half was pretty good.
Don't get me wrong, this movie had its funny moments. It was just a little bit too family-friendly for me.
The first half of the film was a bit slow, but the second half was pretty good.
Don't get me wrong, this movie had its funny moments. It was just a little bit too family-friendly for me.
My GF's and I really enjoyed it!
filmgirl00730 June 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Myself and four of my friends just finished our semester and wanted to see a movie but it was too late to go to the theater here, so we ended up at the video rental store getting this film. We weren't too sure about it being Canadian and low budget and all, but we were really surprised at how funny it turned out to be.
That whole poison berry scene is great. We laughed until we cried. The poker scene was pretty funny too. We hope we get to see more films from these guys.
We liked it so much, I ended up buying it on-line and we have watched it several times so far. The last movie night, I had almost 20 people over... and everyone had a good time.
My friend Hayley said she would like to see what these guys could make with a real budget!
That whole poison berry scene is great. We laughed until we cried. The poker scene was pretty funny too. We hope we get to see more films from these guys.
We liked it so much, I ended up buying it on-line and we have watched it several times so far. The last movie night, I had almost 20 people over... and everyone had a good time.
My friend Hayley said she would like to see what these guys could make with a real budget!
Funny Flick
kamikaze00828 February 2008
Sharp as marbles is a funny movie. It's 3 Dumbo's going around getting in trouble. I gotta say for an independent film it has great production values and is a funny film for the whole family. I really love Sean Roberts role as George he totally steals the movie! This guy is gonna be great throughout his career if he keeps going this way. I also loved Michael Roberds as the manager. I remember him from the Addams Family TV show as Uncle Fester and I saw some of that awesome character in this role! Lastly I really dug the performance by Adam Gregory. As far as I know this is his first role and he did a good job as the guy going for the girl. All in all this movie had it's funny moments. It wasn't the greatest film of all time but Hey it's clean and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Good film for kids
nash-673 May 2009
I would recommend this film if you have kids. I have five kids (two boys and three girls) and all of them really enjoyed it. It is a great movie to watch with the whole family. I don't think that age or gender matter, if you are under the age of sixteen, this film is probably for you. However, if you are over the age of sixteen, it's a completely different story. As an adult, I found it mildly amusing. The characters and the story are very simple, and I can see how a lot of adults may not like it. So I wouldn't recommend watching "Sharp as Marbles" with your wife as a date night, or with a group of guys, unless you've had a few beers. Don't get me wrong, it is watchable, but its much more enjoyable to watch with the kids.
Ya! Now this is funny!
woundedwarrior0512 December 2008
It was great. As funny as "Step Brothers". I was reading about how the film was made and how little time and money the producers had. I am impressed that they could pull this level of humor and quality off with so little to work with. My hats off to those guys.
It is really funny! My buddies and I laughed our asses off the whole show. Does anyone know if they are coming out with a follow up film? Have these guys done anything else that I can see? It's hard to believe it was made in Canada because it seems quite American.
I loved the George and Jennifer character! Definitely one of the best comedies I've seen in a while.
It is really funny! My buddies and I laughed our asses off the whole show. Does anyone know if they are coming out with a follow up film? Have these guys done anything else that I can see? It's hard to believe it was made in Canada because it seems quite American.
I loved the George and Jennifer character! Definitely one of the best comedies I've seen in a while.
A Modern Master Piece
ninjacarsonstudios13 October 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Sharp as Marbles is a modern master piece. Not a single eye was dry at the end of this movie as when Ernie found his brother Bert, I couldn't help but cry with ugly tears. This was an emotional roller coaster and should go down in movie history as a cult classic.
-Carson
Fast moving, funny good times!
anitam200928 July 2009
Just watched Sharp as Marbles on Superchannel Movie Network, and I'll tell you, it was one funny movie. It's not a big budget Hollywood style film (but it's not low budget either). It's hard to pinpoint why we enjoyed this film so much; the characters are stereotype - and sometimes cheesy (but in a good way), the acting is average, the dialogue is simple, and there's no huge special effects, car crashes, etc. However, what makes Sharp as Marbles stand out for us is the energy of the film, and lots of laughs. Would I have liked it as much if I hadn't watched it with my kids? Probably not, but I'm sure I still would have enjoyed it.
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