Here Comes the Boom Packs a Punch

by Benjamin Willett, Contributing Writer, ChristianCinema.com

Summary:

After learning that the arts programs at his school are at risk of being cut, a high school biology teacher (Kevin James) risks his career (and boyishly good looks) when he moonlights as a mixed-martial arts fighter in an effort to raise money & save the day. Everyone thinks Scott is crazy – most of all the school nurse, Bella (Salma Hayek) – but in his quest, Scott gains something he never expected as he becomes a sensation that rallies the entire school.

BOOM!

There should be more movies made like HERE COMES THE BOOM. The blend of comedic writing that’s appropriate for the whole family and a serious story makes this movie stand out from the vast majority of PG family comedies. Not only is this one of the funniest family films I’ve seen in a long time, but it reaches beyond the laughs and into the heart with a universal message that both inspires and entertains.

Okay, why would I rave about a Kevin James comedy in the first place? Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Zookeeper were purportedly family friendly comedies, but entirely too filled with awkward clichés and uncomfortable moments. Not that BOOM is any less cliché—it has its share—but none of it really gets in the way because of the authentic characters and meaningful story.

In the tradition of all good inspirational teacher movies, HERE COMES THE BOOM truly does inspire. Amidst the seemingly endless laugh-inducing antics, there is a rather compelling drama. Their is a romantic storyline as well which involves Voss pursuing the affections of the school nurse. The good news is there is nothing overtly crude or sexual about it. In fact, the one kiss in the entire movie is brief and even laughable itself. And it’s all wrapped up in Voss’s own character development.

NOT WITHOUT RISK

The movie poster states, No one will fight for his students like Mr. Voss. That’s very true. This may be a great comedy for the whole family, but you’ll definitely want to caution your kids about the fighting. If you’re turned off by any amount of physical violence, then the comedy might not be enough to lure you to this movie. This is a story that’s all about fighting for what you believe in, though, so don’t let the idea of Mixed Martial Arts scare you away from this truly inspirational comedy. Also, the choreography is very nicely done. The fights are generally brief and edited in such a way to show off their gravity without being too graphic.

Of course, Voss’s actions are questioned by some, challenging what his violent undertaking is communicating to the kids at the school. Voss returns the challenge and asks what we’re teaching our kids if we don’t keep fighting. The message in BOOM is clear: fighting for what matters, for what we hold dear, is not without bloodshed. Not all fights take place in the ring, but battles are never without their injuries. And when there are friends by your side, victory can be had.

With all the family friendly comedies out there, HERE COMES THE BOOM is one to support. It’s funny, it’s meaningful, and it definitely packs a punch!

Rated PG for mild MMA style fighting and physical violence. Runtime is 105 minutes.