Kingpin (1996)

If you don't mind the sickly sentimental streak, an obviously 
bloated running time, and an exceptional lack of comic timing, then 
this Amish bowling comedy is, uh, right up your alley.  Directors 
Peter and Bobby Farrelly, who made DUMB AND DUMBER, could have 
retitled this one GROSS AND GROSSER.  No joke is too low for these 
guys.  With its endless references to semen, urine, vomit, and 
bowel movements, KINGPIN plays like a potty-mouthed update of THE 
COLOR OF MONEY.  Woody Harrelson is the pro, a one-time, one-handed 
bowling legend who spies an Amish lad (Randy Quaid) with the Gift.   
The plot puts them on the road to Reno, where they have to hustle 
to pay for gas, beer, and other necessities.  Despite the numerous 
laugh-out-loud moments, as well as a couple of classic sight gags, 
KINGPIN suffers from an absolute lack of momentum.  (You might even 
fall asleep in the slower second half.)  The timing is off in most 
places and the movie has an annoying habit of calling attention to 
it's own jokes.  No subtlety here, but, then again, how many other 
summer movies would dare put Randy Quaid in drag, on stage at a 
strip club, impersonating Elizabeth Berkley? (Rated "R"/113 min.)

Grade: C+

Copyright 1996 by Michael J. Legeros

Originally posted to triangle.movies in MOVIE HELL: July 28, 1996