Teddy Walker (Kevin Hart) is a successful salesman whose life takes an unexpected turn when he accidentally blows up his place of employment. Forced to attend night school to get his GED, Teddy soon finds himself dealing with a group of misfit students, his former high school nemesis and Karen (Tiffany Haddish), a feisty teacher who doesn't think he's too bright.
Review
If you're a fan of Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish, then watching Night School is a must. If you're not, it's best to avoid this zany outing.
If you're an in-between fan, then this movie will certainly be a fun time at the theatre.
Night School falls heavily into the American school of comedy - visual gags, a somewhat restrained slapstick approach, and jokes about average looking men dating exceptionally beautiful women.
Kevin Hart and producer Will Packer, who partnered for the hit "Ride Along" and "Think Like a Man" series, bring their signature flair to Night School under the guidance of Malcolm D. Lee.
Hart handles the role in the same way that he does his stand-up comedy, but he has certainly gotten better at handling emotional scenes, which greatly helps investing in the relationships on screen. He has some very clever lines, while also relishing those over-the-top moments.
He knows his strengths, and with Night School he plays into them.
undefinedTiffany Haddish shines in the role, also getting the chance to play to her strengths, while not veering off-character for the sake of a joke or gag. Haddish has made a name for herself in comedy, and the movie benefits from having her in it.
Her introduction brings with it a needed laugh, and then helps progress the movie, prevent it from feeling stale. While the movie is predictable in parts, it manages to avoid other expected progressions, keeping the relationship between Haddish and Hart's characters platonic.
This image released by Universal Pictures shows Tiffany Haddish, left, and Kevin Hart in a scene from "Night School," in theatres nationwide on Sept. 28. Picture: Eli Ade/Universal Pictures via AP)
Night School has the benefit of having a capable and charming group of supporting characters who balance out the film. Most of the side characters get to add to their own brand of humour and perspective which ultimately benefits the movie.
There is an unexpected charm to it, with the story being more inclusive as it touches on dyslexia, being an immigrant, and even has an LGBT+ character. It may also be the first time that a movie has had so many background performers be portrayed by black actors. It's difficult to say if this was intentional, but regardless, it was certainly welcomed.
The movie is not overt with these themes but instead tackles it with comedic effect.
Night School is a solid comedy that delivers a fun time at the movies, it's enjoyment is solely dependent on your taste in comedy. Otherwise, if you're looking for a fun popcorn movie that will leave you entertained, then Night School is worth a watch.
Rating: 3/5