Movie Review: ‘Paul’ takes subversive and hilarious take on ‘E.T.’

James Klentzman
Contributing Writer

It’s no “Shaun of the Dead” or “Hot Fuzz,” but “Paul” is still another funny comedy from Simon Pegg and Nick Frost.

In a weird and subversive tribute to science fiction, especially to Stephen Spielberg, “Paul” features Pegg and Frost as two comic book nerds who encounter Paul the alien (voiced by Seth Rogen) while visiting famous extraterrestrial sites in America. Paul enlists their aid to help him get home while avoiding the government.

Pegg and Frost are brilliant comedy writers and adding Rogen to the mix only makes it funnier. The best moments in “Shaun of the Dead” and “Hot Fuzz” are when they completely undermine the same genre they’re filming, and they do the same thing in “Paul.” Rogen’s deadpan voice is absolutely perfect for a swearing, chain-smoking alien, and Pegg and Frost play their best when they’re buddying up with each other.

Jason Bateman’s performance as a government agent shows just how underappreciated he is as an actor, and Bill Hader and Joe Lo Truglio as two idiotic FBI agents are absolutely hysterical without stealing the spotlight away from the titular character. Kristen Wiig as a creationist Christian turned free spirit after meeting Paul is also funny, but at times it seems that the sole purpose of her character is to act as a romantic interest.

The movie never goes beyond lowbrow humor, even though it gives itself multiple opportunities to go above and beyond. The idea that Paul is the mastermind behind “E.T.” and “The X-Files” and that the government has been putting his image in science fiction works so people wouldn’t panic if they see him are delightful ideas that the movie doesn’t really explore. It’s still funny; hell, it’s hilarious. It just could have had more kinds of humor, and Pegg and Frost are more than capable of touching on more intelligent humor.

The plotline of “Paul” is also, unfortunately, predictable. It might be because it’s a spoof on the genre, but it seems to telegraph specific plot points early in the movie. The movie seems to be burdened down by having to go through these specific science fiction (and buddy comedy) plot points, instead of being more subversive and hysterical.

“Paul” does also have its moments of sweetness. Pegg and Frost are great at making those buddy moments, and it only gets better when an alien is thrown into the mix. There are some genuinely touching moments between the main characters in the movie, and some of the side characters.

“Paul” is a very funny movie, aimed directly at both sci-fi nerds and stoner comedy fans. It blends in hilarity and serious moments fairly well, and the supporting cast and cameos are brilliant. The movie does stumble on a certain things, but as a whole, it is a delightful movie perfect for college students.

Grade: B-