Not overly zealous in the comedy department, but The Incredible Burt Wonderstone gets its day on the silver screen. Support acting, direction and some ok movie magic save the film making it almost worthwhile. If you are a fan of Steve Carell, he’s still at the top of his game, but its Buscemi, Arkin, Wilde and Carrey that make him the star.
The movie centers on Burt Wonderstone (Steve Carell) and Anton Marvelton (Steve Buscemi) the headlining magic act at the hottest casino in Las Vegas. Their run has been brilliant with them getting rich and famous. While Burt has been lavishing himself with women and nice things, Anton has kept his head living a modest life. He’s content with avoiding Burt’s fame and has done so since they were young boys with big dreams. However, things have taken a downward turn with their friendship and Burt has become so egotistical to the point of disdain for his partner who he blames for the mistakes in their act. They decide to separate after a failed stunt and Burt continues alone. When Steve Gray (Jim Carrey) an upstart gorilla street entertainer pops up causing Burt to lose his audience, Burt starts looking for other people to blame.
Under the fine direction of Don Scardino (“30 Rock”) we get a story that’s really silly as he moves his characters into one wacky situation after another. While he takes the craziness over the top a little too often, the support acting saves the film with the portrayal of some oddball characters that leave a lasting impression. Using the rubber faced Jim Carrey to pull off some very outrageous stunts he adds some of the dark side of magic for shock value. But Scardino’s use of Alan Arkin in the role of the famous Rance Halloway brings the film back to center with the focus on relationships and honor. The ever lovely Olivia Wilde plays Jane a pivotal role working as the go between trying for a Burt and Anton revival.
The film has been rated PG-13 by the MPAA for sexual content, dangerous stunts, a drug-related incident and language. As always please be sure to check out films with adult matter before allowing immature children to attend a showing.
FINAL ANALYSIS: Not the best comedy ever to hit the silver screen. D+
Additional Film Information:
- Cast: Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi, Olivia Wilde, Alan Arkin, James Gandolfini and Jim Carrey
- Directed by: Don Scardino
- Genre: Comedy
- MPAA Rating: PG-13 for sexual content, dangerous stunts, a drug-related incident and language
- Running Time: 1 hr 40 min
- Opening Date: March 15, 2013
- Distributed by: Warner Brothers
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
