A Hollywood buddy comedy described by viewers as "very dumb but absolutely hilarious" is set to light up screens on Channel 4 this evening. The 2016 action film Central Intelligence, starring Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Kevin Hart, promises a night of high-octane laughs, though it has garnered a decidedly mixed reception from audiences since its release.
Plot and Premise: An Unlikely Spy Duo
The film's plot centres on a dramatic high school reunion. Johnson plays Bob Stone, a once-overweight teenager who was brutally bullied, but who reappears at the reunion transformed into a supremely fit and muscular man. There, he tracks down Calvin Joyner, played by Hart, a fast-talking accountant who nostalgically pines for his own past as a celebrated school athlete.
However, the reunion takes a wild turn when it's revealed that Stone is now a highly skilled CIA agent. He recruits Joyner, leveraging the accountant's numerical prowess, on a critical mission to prevent a compromised U.S. spy satellite system from causing global mayhem. The ensuing adventure throws the mismatched pair into a chaotic world of espionage, double-crosses, and explosive shootouts.
Box Office Success vs. Divided Fan Opinions
Financially, Central Intelligence was a clear winner. According to data from IMDb, the film grossed an impressive $217 million (approximately £175 million) at the global box office, working from a production budget of $50 million (around £39.3 million). Yet, its critical reception from fans remains split, as evidenced by reviews on sites like Rotten Tomatoes.
Many viewers champion the film as a perfect piece of escapist entertainment. One fan review stated, "It is definitely a good way to spend a lazy summer night – especially if you want to laugh." Another praised the lead duo's chemistry, saying, "This movie is hilarious! The Rock and Kevin Hart are fantastic together... Watching them both on screen is the best part." A third called it "one of the greatest buddy action comedies ever" and expressed a desire for a sequel.
Where the Humour Fell Flat for Some
Not all audience members were convinced. A more critical faction found the film lacking in substance and execution. One blunt review labelled it simply "Dumb," questioning if there was even a coherent plot and criticising the ending. Another conceded that "some scenes are funny" but concluded it was a "totally bad and poorly edited movie."
A recurring theme among detractors is the film's forgettable nature. One viewer summarised, "While it has decent action, the humour kind of falls flat for me... you can watch and have a good time but once it's over you end up just forgetting about it immediately." This divide highlights the subjective nature of the film's brand of over-the-top, action-driven comedy.
For those looking to make up their own mind, Central Intelligence airs on Channel 4 on Friday 16 January at 11.05pm. Whether you find it hilariously entertaining or simply forgettable, the dynamic between Johnson and Hart ensures it's a cinematic pairing that commands attention.
