Shorts

Shorts

“Sometimes wishing does make it so, but be sure you’re wishing for something worth wishing for.”

Well, you can certainly tell that school’s back in session for the majority of my children. When I waved my eight free passes in front of them this past Tuesday and asked who wanted to go see Shorts with me. I was quickly shot down. “Too much homework.” “Too tired.” “Have to study for biology test.” “I just really don’t want to see that.” Whatever! Fortunately, when my youngest son found out a family friend of ours—and a favorite of his—would be there, he was thrilled to be my date for the evening.

I was thrilled to get to see Ducky on the big screen. For those that weren’t lucky enough to spend their adolescence in the 80’s, Ducky was the name of a character played by Jon Cryer in one of the greatest 80’s movies of all time, Pretty in Pink (I would’ve chosen Ducky!). You may also know him as Alan on Three and a Half Men, but it’s the former character that made me a forever fan. Imagine my surprise when James Spader (also part of the Pretty in Pink cast) showed up in the movie as well. Practically a reunion!

Shorts tells the story (in bits and pieces, in no particular order) of a group of kids who find a magic rainbow rock that fulfills their every wish. Of course, it can’t be as easy as it sounds. Be careful what you wish for, ‘cause you just might get it rings true where this movie is concerned. The magic rock interprets—and grants—the kids’ wishes…literally.

Toe Thompson (well done by Jimmy Bennett) narrates the story and while you might think he’s the first one to find the rock, don’t give yourself a headache trying to figure out if that’s a fact. The movie backtracks and fast forwards from one scene to another until it reaches its chaotic end and you don’t know who’s to blame.

Jolie Vanier plays Helvetica Black. Who, along with her brother, Cole (Devon Gearhart) are Toe’s worst enemies. They just happen to be the children of James Spader’s character who just happens to be boss to Toe’s parents (Cryer and Leslie Mann). Toe’s sister, Stacy (Kat Dennings) tutors Toe’s former friend and germaphobe, Nose. William H. Macy does an excellent job as Nose’s even more germaphobic father. Ya gotta give Macy credit for not letting success go to his head thinking this cute little family film beneath him. Three boys (Lug, Laser and Loogie) and a baby round out the character list and make for an amusing little tale.

It’s silly, it’s ridiculous, it’s predictable, but it’s also fun. Full of bodily function humor and slapstick comedy, I think it would be most enjoyed by those in the 4-9 yr. old range. The five year old sitting beside me thought it was hilarious and my own son has never been more impressed by a scene than the one in which a man turns into a hotdog and rolls down the street.

It’s not a masterpiece, but it’s enjoyable. Whether at the theater or on DVD, I think it’s worth a watch…with the right company.

Bottom Line: Shorts is big on family friendly fun!