Paul

British comedy superstars Simon Pegg and Nick Frost team up once again in their first collab with some of America’s best jokers. Paul has the duo visiting the states for Comic-Con and then, during a post convention road trip, running into an alien on the run from the US government. Though because this is a comedy, the alien smokes, swears and is voiced by Seth Rogen. Pegg and Frost’s characters then escort Paul, the alien; to a place he believes he will be safe. All the while, federal agents, played by Jason Bateman, Bill Hader and Joe Lo Truglio, are on their trail.

The film’s structure is a road story with multiple intertwining storylines. The linking is very basic however. All of those plot points result in another angry person chasing after the RV’ing Englishmen. Being that the film does not grow to the level of plot or character complexity that the Pegg and Frost’s other features do, I have to say that Paul is not as successful as Shaun of the Dead or Hot Fuzz. The difference in director may be a contributing factor. But the positive attributes make it much more than your typical, generic comedy.

Pegg proves once again he is strong comedic lead by providing the emotional basis for the movie and the most likeable performance. Frost steps up his usual dopey sidekick role into a multi-layered complement to Pegg. The script, written by the duo, is relevant to an American audience while maintaining the wit more common to British humor. The frequent use of pop culture references give the fan boy viewers added laughs without alienating the casual moviegoer. The added contributions of Rogen and a very funny Kristen Wiig give Paul the potential for serious lasting power. But it is odd how even comedians are putting out alien movies this year. (8.6 out of 10)