Envy

ENVY (2004) - May 7, 2004 (S)
A mediocre movie from Barry Levinson (what a surprise). Jack Black, Ben Stiller and Christopher Walken are all wasted in this stupid movie which just doesn't work (with a few exceptions). One of the main problems is that none of the characters act like actual people. This unrealistic tone is heightened by Levinson's bad direction, which makes the whole thing look as wonky as the people act. It could almost be called a dark comedy, but it doesn't really have the guts to do anything dark (the ending is ultra-happy). Jack Black, while not really Jack Blacky enough, manages to create the only character worth caring about in this stupid movie. There are a few good moments here and there, but they are certainly outweighed by the bad. **