This is a directorial debut for Seth MacFarlane and if you've ever watched Family Guy, you will know what kind of crude, boundary-stretching, politically incorrect style of comedy to expect. No-one is safe, and the script pokes fun at various religious groups, races, celebrities, pop singers, gay people, fat people and even children, inducing a few gasps from the audience along with the laughter. Admittedly, a lot of it is just very funny and you can't help but laugh.
Underneath it all however is a surprisingly sweet story of childhood friendship, with John still holding on to his teddy bear and refusing to grow up and act like an adult. Mark Wahlberg plays it brilliantly, with great support from Mila Kunis as the unhappy girlfriend whose patience is running out. The film zips along at a steady pace, only faltering towards the end when the creepy father (Giovanni Ribisi) and son subplot comes into play. But this is a minor quibble.
Already a huge hit in the US, this looks set to be one of the comedies of the year and is perfect for a fun night out at the cinema with your friends. Not suitable for the prudish and easily offended though! Look out for nostalgic nods to various 80s films/songs, some fantastic cameos (including Sam Jones of Flash Gordon fame) and the excellent voiceover intro from Sir Patrick Stewart.
UK release date: 1st August 2012
