Film Reviews:Taladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

Ricky Bobby (Will Ferrell) had always wanted to go fast. “If you’re not first, you’re last,” were the last words his dad said to him as he was being thrown out of Ricky’s school. Those words meant something to the little boy who grew into a top NASCAR racer who always came in first. He gets the beautiful girl, the large home, and perfect family. Then he is challenged by a famous French driver and his luck turns. The American dream becomes the typical nightmare. He is down and out, living back home with his mom, until his dad shows up and teaches him how to drive fast again.

I really wanted to like “Taladega Nights:The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.” There isn’t much Ferrell can’t do with a good comedy, but apparently he can’t do anything with a mediocre one. This is mostly red neck humor and nothing else.

There were some funny scenes, but they didn’t move the story along and after you were done laughing you just waited until the next silly thing happened. The only bright spot to the film was Ricky’s dad, played by Gary Cole. He not only energizes his son with down home tough love but energizes the film as well.

This movie is not for a young audience: don’t be fooled by the trailer this film has some scenes that aren’t suitable for a 13-year-old. This is definitely a film you can hold off for until it goes to video. If you really want to spend those movie dollars there are several films out there more deserving: “The Descent,” “Boynton Beach Club,” or go see “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” again. I give “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” 2 out of 5 stars.

“Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” stars Will Ferrell, Gary Cole, and John C. Rielly. It’s directed by Adam McKay and written by McKay and Ferrell. It’s rated PG-13.