Reel critics

Van Novack

If “Big Trouble” had been released last fall as originally scheduled,

it most likely would have slipped into theaters largely unnoticed before

being shipped off to the video stores in a few weeks.

However, “Big Trouble” received some free publicity as it features the

unlikely topics of black market nuclear weapons and airplane hijackings

in a screwball comedy. It was wisely pulled from the autumn release

schedule and instead opened in theaters April 5.

That hijackings or illegal arms could have been considered funny in

any context is a vivid reminder of just how much innocence has been lost

since the Sept. 11 attacks. Even under the best of circumstances, such

horrific acts are still questionable subjects for a comedy. Given the

current political climate, these plot elements are more disturbing than

comical.

“Big Trouble” is not totally without merit. The cast is an impressive

gathering of talent including Tim Allen, Rene Russo, Dennis Farina,

Janeane Garofalo, Stanley Tucci and Omar Epps. Most of them put in

creditable performances, although not much effort is required for what

are largely paper-thin stereotypical roles.

The plot is so unnecessarily complex it is nearly impossible to

synthesize. In addition to the aforementioned hijacking and arms trade,

plot elements include a frog that sprays hallucinogenic fluid,

crotch-sniffing dogs, mob assassins, drunken security guards, runaway

goats and a strange obsession with Martha Stewart and Geo automobiles.

There are some laugh-out-loud moments, but ultimately they are too far

and few between. “Big Trouble” always seems to be trying a bit too hard

and makes up for lack of true comic moments by keeping up a frantic pace.

* VAN NOVACK, 48, is the director of institutional research at Cal

State Long Beach.