kevandeb I have to admit I am a sucker for Kevin James, ever since King of Queens was broadcast in the UK I have loved the persona he plays as the 'average joe' he typifies what most of us guys do in life or would like to do and that is to act like a kid, never grow up and do as little as possible!! His transposition to the big screen has not been without troubles and whilst this is a bit kitsch, borrows from other movies, I still will forgive his choices as he is, like Simon Pegg, so likable that watching him gives a warm feeling like a mug of cocoa on a rainy day. Not an Oscar winner but an above average afternoon movie that is easily watchable

ggallagher Kevin James is not one my favorite actors, and some of his other movie roles in the last few years have been corny, to say the least. However, I was pleasantly surprised by this film all the same. Despite some opportunities for over the top physical humor, he played it as realistically as possible with some truly funny moments and a Rocky-like ending. Lots of clichés here but in the main, a funny take on the age old underdog theme. Salma Hayek is passable as the female love interest and Henry Winkler does a good job of delivering the goofy one liners he seems to be doing in more and more film roles as he ages and leaves his Fonzy image far behind. Definitely worth a look.

Yabuki Joe This was really fun to watch. Surprisingly so. I was afraid to see yet another movie with Kevin James playing a bumbling, lovable idiot with a number of cringy jokes, but they definitely toned down that element for this movie. And it certainly worked for me.To get the obvious points out of the way: Yes, this is a pretty generic underdog/feel-good story with a rather far-fetched plot (teacher turns UFC fighter) and a predictable ending. However, they really executed it well. For a start, the cast really carries this movie and makes up for the generic elements of the plot. All the actors seem to be enjoying themselves and it shows. Henry Winkler as the music teacher is fantastic and MMA legend Bas Rutten is a comic revelation on screen, providing a lot of comic relief and a generally positive aura in every scene. In addition, long-term UFC fan Kevin James took the time to make sure that they made this unlikely underdog story as realistic as possible, with several mixed martial artists being consulted for this movie and acting in cameos. Also, while the plot is far-fetched, they still tried to make sure that the teacher's journey doesn't look too easy. After all, you can't just waltz into professional MMA fighting like this. But with a bit of suspension of disbelief the movie works great.This movie surely won't earn much praise from serious film critics, but I found it really enjoyable for what it is and, thanks to the entertaining cast, I'd happily watch it again soon.

Zoooma Nothing special here from Kevin James. Definitely not one of his better movies. And you do not need to be a fan of mixed martial arts to enjoy this. I hate the sport but found it easy to watch in this.Unfortunately the movie just isn't that funny. It has its moments but is a bit of a snoozer at times, too. Henry Winkler is excellent as is one of the MMA guys. And Salma Hayek – well, not much here for her but a nice addition to be sure. I just wish the movie has more laughs. The comedy is a bit bland and overall I was left not feeling that impressed.5.8 / 10 stars--Zoooma, a Kat Pirate Screener