Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2
David Matthew Jenkins
Actor and writer
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
I saw the movie with my beautiful wife, Yuko. It became our date night at Consolidated Theaters in Pearlridge Center.
Overall, what did you think?
Let’s talk talent first. The performances of Kevin James as Paul Blart and Raini Rodriguez as Maya, his daughter, were spot on and accurately characterized the father/daughter relationship. Mall cop Paul Blart is an overprotective and somewhat daft dad interested in nothing other than looking after his daughter’s security. He appears to see himself as the world’s security officer even when he is on vacation in Vegas. Neal McDonough is in his element as the token bad guy Vincent, who brings his own spin to ruthlessly funny. Overall, it has a strong comedic storyline and an all-star cast of multi-talented actors.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
You’ve got to love that two-wheeled electric scooter. Blart sees himself as a pro on it; like a circus bear on a unicycle, he has but one job to do. You also are going to appreciate when Blart observes a fellow officer patrolling on mounted horseback — enough said.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
I give it ★★★ 1/2. It couples very funny dialogue and delivery of subtle punch lines, without being corny, which is not easy to get right. And because it is a sequel, fans are coming back to see it for the laughs, so it met my expectations.
Was the message/theme clear?
Yes, funny and unpretentious, without being mawkishly sentimental. Blart is just your regular guy, a concerned father who loves his daughter and wants what is best for her.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
Not really, but it was wholesome in a Father of the Bride kind of way, yet down to earth in a sitcom kind of way, if that makes any sense. The opening scene, by design, seems to set you up to remember what happened in the previous Mall Cop film.
Who would you recommend this movie to?
I think parents of teenagers will like it, and anyone with a sense of humor who enjoys character-driven comedy.
Did any of the actors stand out?
Actress Daniella Alonso plays Divina, the tall, attractive hotel manager who is clearly out of Blart’s league. Casting directors and fans are more than likely searching for her even more now on imdb.com.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
I like the antagonist Vincent. Good guys can and should win, but bad guys like him are always more memorable. Neal McDonough showed he could make the vilified scoundrel have his own brand of comedic frustration.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
Sure, I’ll buy it. And it would make a great gift for movie junkies to add to their DVD collections. It’s the kind of movie you can play on a Friday night after work, or at a birthday party or barbecue in your home. It is guaranteed to entertain all age groups.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Popcorn! I know you’re thinking, “how unoriginal,” but popcorn is an American movie-watching tradition.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
I was recently cast as Brian, a concerned citizen speaking at a neighborhood board meeting in Juniper Lane, a PG feature-length film produced by Yellow Brick Studios and Island Film Group. I’m finishing up my book, titled Becoming a Great Leader. It is all about my experiences leading people in the military, business, entrepreneurial endeavors and in life. The book is scheduled for publication by Aviva Publishing in New York some time around November of this year. I’m planning to have a book release party.
