Mchales Navy

 

 

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Not having seen any of the original McHale's Navy episodes, I can't really compare this film to the television classic - but it doesn't take a genius to figure out that the movie is undoubtedly of lower comedic quality than the original series. Judging the film solely on its own merits, it's really not that bad. It's certainly no showcase for sophisticated humor, but it is generally pretty funny throughout. Surely, I'm not the only guy who finds Tom Arnold pretty funny (as long as he's not doing stand-up). The other guys are pretty much hit and miss, though, as they're really just stereotypes. David Alan Grier has his moments as the slow ensign dreaming of lieutenant's stripes, but we've seen the same kind of character act the same way in many a movie already. Originality is not a word you're going to hear in the same sentence as McHale's Navy, I'm afraid.

McHale (Arnold) is a former Navy man who peddles his wares on San Moreno and surrounding Caribbean islands, with many a customer and buddy at the navy base. It's an amazingly undisciplined place, with the guys really living the life of Riley - until, that is, their new CO, Captain Wallace B. Binghamton (Dean Stockwell), best known as the man who sank the Love Boat, arrives. While Binghamton is trying to impart a sense of order at the base, Major Vladikov (Tim Curry), constantly referred to as the second-ranked terrorist in the world, is setting up shop on nearby San Moreno island. To Binghamton's chagrin, the brass in Washington (represented by Cobra, played by none other than Ernest Borgnine) recruits McHale back into active duty in order to find out what Vladikov is up to and then to stop him. Assorted hijinx then ensue as McHale gets his old team back together for one more mission.

The cast is above average for this type of film. Alongside Tim Curry, Ernest Borgnine, and David Alan Grier, you also have the likes of Debra Messing and Bruce Campbell. Unfortunately, none of them are called upon to do all that much with their characters. The film never tries to be anything more than a dumb comedy; even the central plot seems to shrink in upon itself and take a different turn as the end nears. The rather shallow nature of the script plus the negative reaction of many a fan of the original series does much to explain why the movie flopped at the box office. As mindless entertainment, though, you could do much worse than a short tour of duty in McHale's Navy.

i had high hopes for this movie before watching it.but,maybe i
shouldn't have.after all,it does star Tom Arnold.some of the films he
is in are OK,especially where he is not the main character.but this
one,not so much.it's billed as a comedy,but that entails laughter.it's
based on the 1962 series of the same name,supposedly.if that's case,the
makers of the TV show should sue the makers and actors involved in this
movie for defamation.i like Debra Messing,but she picked the wrong
movie to be a part of.Tim Curry also stars,playing a variation of every
bad guy he has ever played.the plot is silly,to be kind.the back cover
promises madcap adventure and and zaniness.maybe it's a typo.it's no
wonder this movie tanked at the box office.for me,McHale's Navy is a
2/5

I enjoyed this movie immensley, I almost didn't watch it because I thought it wouldn't be that great due to the others reviews, but I really like it and plan on buying it VERY soon!
The one thing I don't like about it is in the beginning theres at least 7 references to sex, and after that about 2 more in the middle of the movie. BUT, other than that, the movie rocks.
I don't know why no one finds this movie funny, maybe it's me, I usually go for those nutty-don't make that much sense-comedy movies.
Tom Arnold was great playing McHale, the other actors did good too but I have to say Tim Curry as Vladikov (The second best terrorist in the world *rolls eyes*) really made the movie, he's so funny and brought a lot more greatness to the movie than the others did. I loved his eastern european accent, kinda sexy ;-) (of course his voice is sexy all together.)

*Ahem* Anyway, if you're anything like me, you'll like this movie. But in case you're not, rent it first. Just in case.

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5.0 out of 5 stars Best Comedy from Tom Arnold
I love this movie, Its really funny, but also has some cool action sequences. I think it's Tom Arnolds best movie since True Lies. Read more

Published on May 11 2003 by R. Guerrero

5.0 out of 5 stars Very funny thoughtless humor
If you're in the mood for a comedy that requires no thought, this is it. The single lines are hilarious if you let them be. It has a "Billy Madison" type humor. Read more

Published on Aug 8 2001

3.0 out of 5 stars An OK film
Okay, I admit, I saw the film because Bruce Campbell is in it. He does a great job, and the film is very funny, just a little hard to swallow.

Published on April 25 2001

4.0 out of 5 stars Funny, but flawed.
I liked this movie and I don't care who knows it. The thing that ruined it was why is there only one women in this film? Read more

Published on May 23 2000

5.0 out of 5 stars Watchable,but not too rewatchable! worth a rental first!
For fans of Tim Curry,Tom Arnold or Bruce Campbell you will be happy with the loosely based movie on the 1960's sitcom. This a video that can be watched once in a while! Read more

Published on April 6 2000 by Aaron Amos

4.0 out of 5 stars Could use some 'Fiddling' With
A fairly good, and funny, little movie that sometimes lacks pace. MCHALE'S NAVY is well-cast and acted out, but, as I said, is rather slow in too many scenes. Read more

Published on Feb 3 2000 by LeAnn

4.0 out of 5 stars very entertaining, but re-viewability may not be too high.
the characters are enjoyable to watch. a good movie for Tim Curry fans, Tom Arnold fans, or Bruce Campbell fans... as their characters are played out very well. Read more

Published on July 3 1999

1.0 out of 5 stars Avoid this like the Black Plague.
If you are interested in viewing this tripe.I would recommend instead to go outside,and if you have grass growing in your yard,to watch it grow. Read more

Published on Jun 11 1999

5.0 out of 5 stars a REALLY funny movie!!!
This is a really funny movie! Tim Curry is great as "Vladikov". Tim has most of the really funny lines. His last line in the movie is the funniest. Read more

Published on Jan 31 1999

5.0 out of 5 stars One fun movie
This is one of my favorite movies. It is funny, fast paced, and entertaining with great action scenes and hilarious characters. If you like fun movies by this one.

Published on Jan 14 1999

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