What do you get when you cast comics along with actors traditionally known for their work in dramas? A rabid blend of comedic action, not unlike The Other Guys, but perhaps slightly less sophisticated and more convoluted. It appears we’re now at the point where someone needs to make up a clever neologism to add to its siblings dramedy and rom-com. Comaction, perhaps?
Protagonist Nick (played by the talented, albeit monotonous Jesse Eisenberg) is a pizza delivery boy in the sleepy town of Grand Rapids, Mich. He’s a college dropout, stuck in a mundane and unfulfilling life. This all changes, however, when he unwittingly walks into a trap crafted by the Beavis and Butthead-esque Dwayne (Danny McBride) and Travis (Nick Swardson).
Nick turns to his best friend Chet (played by the hysterically funny Aziz Ansari in his first major film role) for help, and hilarity and edge-of-your-seat moments ensue as the two battle against time, Dwayne and Travis, and mercurial assassin Chongo (Michael Pena).
There are plenty of laughs and exciting action sequences in this film; however, it never fully takes off. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still entertaining but you definitely feel like you’ve lost a couple of brain cells when the credits start rolling.
Even so, 30 Minutes or Less, is a decently fun ride, with a well-constructed cast. Ansari and Pena alone are worth the price of admission!
[etRating value=“ 2.5”]
