Big Momma's House Review

Big movie stars, at times, just take it for granted that their star status will sell a movie. This (mis)adventure of Martin Lawrence is one such classic example. The movie relies on situational comedy and, rather reluctantly, Lawerence's wit. Director Gosnell seems to have done nothing for the movie except for hiring Martin Lawerence to play the lead. Not every actor can cross-dress and carry out the performance with style and humor.

Malcolm (Martin Lawerence) is an undercover FBI agent who is extremely good at disguises. Cherie is the ex-girlfriend of the notorious bank robber Lester, who has escaped from prison. Malcolm is given the assignment to find Cherie and use her to trap Lester. The only known relative of Cherie is Mrs Patterson, known as Big Momma (and you bet she is BIG). And so begins the surveillance of Big Momma's House, in the hope that Cherie will contact her.

When Big Momma unexpectedly leaves town and Cherie arrives, Malcolm is forced to take her place. From here on start the feeble attempts at humor. In trying to get close to Cherie and wean out information, Malcolm falls in love with her. There is a whole sequence of comical events like Big Momma playing basketball, dishing out karate chops and performing acrobatics. Finally, Lester arrives on the scene and is taken out by Malcolm. All is revealed and forgiven and we have a happy ending.

I sympathize with Martin Lawrence, who must have suffered in the fat body suit he had to wear (he reportedly passed out, and his dress had to be punched with holes). He has performed half-heartedly, and it is there for everyone to see. The rest of the cast is just there to make up numbers. The direction is poor, and so is the script.

A comedy that will make you smile, but to laugh will be an effort.