Absolutely Anything (2015)

When I first read about "Absolutely Anything" on IMDB, I was excited to see it. After all, it was directed by the late Terry Jones....and I adore almost all the post-Monty Python stuff he's done. His documentaries have been brilliant and I longed to see him direct yet again...plus he co-wrote the film. And, I was excited to see that five of the old Python actors were in the film. Ultimately, however, this all led to disappointment as most of the Pythoners were NOT physically in the film but just provided voices for some goofy aliens. And, while there is a quick cameo of Jones himself...it was just too quick. Plus, and I know this will sound awful, Jones turned out to be in horrible health when he made the film and he was suffering from rather severe Dementia. I have no idea how much this affected the movie...but surely it did.The story itself is a silly thing where Neil (Simon Pegg) is suddenly given god-like powers in order for these aliens to test the human race. And, if he does poorly and acts selfishly, then the entire planet is slated for destruction. Naturally, Neil is dumb and does lots of dumb things with the powers but ultimately makes a great decision at the end.In many ways, the film is like combining the old "Twilight Zone" episode "Mr. Dingle the Strong" (where Burgess Meredith is given Herculean physical power) and "Evan Almighty". The film IS enjoyable and it kept my interest...unfortunately, it also was nothing more than this and the Python reunion (of sorts...and without the deceased Graham Chapman) was a bust. Watchable and worth seeing...provided your expectations are not huge. By the way, in a weird case of art NOT imitating life, there is one point where Neil's dog (voiced by Robin Williams) saves someone from committing suicide. Considering Williams himself committed suicide and the film came out well after this, it seem in questionable taste to have this scene.

Neil (Simon Pegg) is a teacher who dreams about his neighbor (Kate Beckinsale) and loves his dog (Robin Williams). When the film combines STAR TREK 1 and BRUCE ALMIGHTY, aliens give Neil absolute power as a test for the survival of all of mankind.The film has potential and it had its moments. The absolute powers follow precise speech with no regard to consequences. I kept waiting for the film to get better and have the big laugh. It didn't happen. The high point was using the cast of Monty Python as the voices for aliens.Guide: A couple of F-bombs. Brief nude female torso

This film deserved a better fate than the one it got--a quick release before disappearing into the void. The film isn't perfect by far but Simon Pegg makes a funny lead character, Kate Beckingsale is breathtakingly beautiful throughout and the Monty Python gang has a nice turn as well.But the real surprise for me was Robin Williams. I have NOT been a fan and he's caused me more pain than laughs throughout his career. But in this, his final role, Williams is absolutely FABULOUS. He's funny and gives Dennis character a lot of heart. What a great way to go out.A few reviewers have noted this is a "family friendly" comedy. But be aware there's a lot of unnecessary swearing that I found...well, unnecessary. But Jones delivers a script with more hits than misses and as a director keeps things rolling.This is one that is well worth giving a try.

It's not too big on the story, but it a great movie that doesn't take itself too serious. There was many moments that made me laugh out loud, something that's usually pretty hard to do, but I'm more on the British humour side than the American side.It's similar to Bruce Almighty in many ways, but I thought this one was way better. Jim Carey can be funny, but only in small doses. This movie keeps it lightly.