RICKY STANICKY (2024) review

 

"Ricky Stanicky" takes us on a journey back to the era when dude comedies ruled the screens, but instead of a refreshing throwback, it feels more like digging up a fossil – it's old, stale, and should have stayed buried. Peter Farrelly, known for his hits like "Dumb and Dumber" and "There's Something About Mary," seems to have taken a detour down a pothole-ridden road with this one.

The plot revolves around a trio of guys who blame all their shenanigans on a made-up scapegoat named Ricky Stanicky. When their imaginary friend is demanded to make a real-life appearance, they enlist the help of an alcoholic actor, played by John Cena, who hilariously stumbles through the role, much like the movie itself stumbles through its attempts at humor.

While Zac Efron and Cena try their best to salvage the wreckage, the script feels like it was written by a committee of writers who each had a different idea of what funny is. From crude gestures during corporate meetings to a rabbi accidentally high on ketamine, the jokes fall flat faster than a deflated balloon at a kids' party.

Sure, there are moments where Efron shines with some genuine emotion, and Cena commits so hard to his role that you almost forget you're watching a dumpster fire of a movie. But those moments are like oases in a desert of juvenile humor and cringe-worthy scenes.

"Ricky Stanicky" might have its moments of absurdity, like Cena's daring escape in a Britney Spears outfit, but they're drowned out by the cacophony of recycled jokes and tired gags. It's a mixed bag at best, and at worst, a stark reminder that some things are better left in the past – like childhood games and this movie.