Written by Wayne Townsend
Night School is the latest edition of comedies featuring funny man Kevin Hart. Hart also produced, distributed, and shared co-writing credit with five others. Maybe this film had so many writers because Hart is spread too thin, as a result, is an unfunny film that wastes a talented cast that includes Tiffany Haddish, Rob Riggle, and Taren Killam. Almost all the funny bits are in the trailer, and only half of those produced anything more than a light-hearted chuckle. It’s been said filming comedic movies are difficult because comedy requires timing, and the best comedians feed off of a live audience. Hart’s character, Teddy Walker, returns to school to obtain a GED. Because of a mishap, Teddy loses the job he has had for 17 years and needs his GED to secure gainful employment. Teddy has been lying to his girlfriend throughout the course of their relationship by extending himself beyond his financial means and is desperate to get the job as a broker his best friend promises him once he completes the course before his girlfriend finds out he’s a fraud. Haddish steals every scene as she is more than credible as the night school teacher, Carrie. Haddish, who had a breakout role in 2017’s Girl Trip, also directed by Malcolm D. Lee did not diminish her ascension to star status in this far inferior film. Riggle, of SNL and The Daily Show fame, doesn’t have much to do as he is part of the night school class misfits that we’ve seen in dozens of movies with The Breakfast Club coming immediately to mind.
There is no doubt in my mind Hart is hard working, but maybe fatigue has set in, his outing in this film appears rehashed or mailed in. He may have reached his zenith as a comedian as the last few outings He seems to have settled in a comedic style that may have run its course. Change is what is going to Hart relevant, and I hope he makes a move sooner than later. Hart is a talented performer who should stretch outside his comfort zone ala Marlo n Wayans turn in Requiem for a Dream or Dave Chapelle in the upcoming A Star is Born remake. I believe he could make a successful transition to drama with suitable material. Night School flunks, 1 ½ out of 5.