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For those not familiar with NASCAR, “Talladega” is, of course, a medical condition that results from excessive moonshine and inbreeding.
Ricky Bobby (Will Ferrell) was born with the need for speed when he came into the world in the back seat of his Dad’s speeding car. Years and years later, Ricky accidentally becomes a racecar driver when the driver in a race gives up and the boss asks one of the pit crew guys if they want to drive. Ricky volunteers and almost overnight becomes one of the most winning drivers of all time. His lack of fear propels him to stardom. He marries a hot chic, has two snotty kids and can do no wrong. That is, until the day a flamboyantly gay driver from France shows up to challenge him. While trying to out-do the French driver, he looses control of his car, his confidence, and everything he holds dear. To do some soul searching, he goes back to his home town and gets help from a very unlikely source. Now he has to go back and face his demons and reclaim his fame.
Depending on your point of view, Talladega Nights could be seen as a NASCAR tribute, or as a NASCAR satire. Either way, it’s funny . . . funny, though, in that over-the-top, silly sort of way that appeals to many, but certainly not to all. The punch lines are ingeniously unpredictable, but not always particularly witty. The story is fitting and entertaining, but clearly ridiculous. The casting and acting are hardly Oscar-worthy, but they suit the genre. And, the cinematography is superb - they masterfully crashed a lot of racecars! If you’re looking for a compelling story and smart comedy, Talladega isn’t your race. But, if you’re looking for a loud and rowdy good time, well then . . . ladies and gentlemen, start your engines!
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