YCS At the Movies: Semi-Pro

Despite universally awful reviews, I decided to drop a dollar at the Redbox outside my Jewel last Friday and partake in this recent Will Ferrell picture. These awful reviews drastically lowered my expectations (which are always high for Ferrell's movies), but I'm here to say that Semi-Pro does have a redeeming value to it.

Following the story of the ABA's Flint Tropics, owned by lead character Jackie Moon (portrayed by Ferrell), viewers enjoy the plight of the Tropics as they try to become one of four ABA teams to merge into the NBA the following season. Trumping up the circus-like feel behind the NBA's arch-rival league, Moon's promotional tactics resemble those of former Cubs and White Sox owner Bill Veeck in their utter absurdity. The not so subtle digs at the shiftiness of owners in regards to their proclivity to use bait and switch tactics adds to the outrageous feel of the movie.

Along with the usual over the top antics of Ferrell, Woody Harrelson's character Ed Monix does a great job as the straight man for Moon to play off of. A personal favorite of mine from his days as Job Bluth in Arrested Development, Will Arnett has a fun supporting role as the Tropics color commentator. Semi-Pro also features a solid performance by another cult comedy favorite Andy Richter as Ferrell's assistant.

While not on the level of legendary Ferrell classics like Old School, Anchorman, and Talladega Nights, Semi-Pro is well worth a viewing as a fun little sports comedy. Assuredly hurt from the high expectations initially placed on the film, it works when you take it at its face value as a fun little comedy and not expecting it to be anything extremely memorable.

Overall Verdict:
On the YCS scale of rating movies (the worst movies receiving the Icehouse distinction and the best receiving the Goose Island 312 mark of approval), I give Semi-Pro a solid PBR rating (Fun if you expect a good time, disappointing if you're expecting something special).