Central Intelligence (2016)

"You ever steal a plane before?"

"I stole some Starbursts one time."

Calvin "Golden Jet" Joyner (Hart) was the best of the best at his high school: smart, star athlete, thespian, etc.  He was named most likely to succeed and everyone expected him to have a bright future.  20 years later, he is married to his high school sweetheart Maggie (Nicolet) and is an accountant.  Maggie is excited about their 20 year high school reunion, but Calvin is ashamed of his life.  A few days before the reunion he is contacted by Bob Stone (Johnson), a former classmate.  Bob was named Robbie and was overweight and the brunt of most people's jokes.  His misfortune culminates when he is thrown into the gym naked, in front of the entire class.  He changed his name and started a strict exercise regime.

Bob and Calvin spend the evening bonding and reminiscing.  The next morning Bob reveals that he is in the CIA and needs Calvin's help.  Can Calvin survive the dangerous world of international spies and intrigue?


Kevin Hart is on a roll.  Every action comedy he touches turns to gold, including this film.  He started as a stand-up comedian, but also has a successful film career.  Hart is charismatic on screen, even when his character is not particularly compelling.  His charisma and comedic timing are matched by Dwayne Johnson.  Johnson started his career as professional wrestler in the WWF and then transitioned to acting.

Hart and Johnson work well together and are the perfect comedic foils for each other.  Hart is the uptight all-star, while Johnson is socially awkward and mysterious / keeps you on your toes.  Their physical differences add to the comedy.  Amy Ryan is the serious CIA agent that is chasing them.  Jason Batemen gets to be the snarky jerk, which is perfect for him.

It is an entertaining action flick with lots of laughs.  It isn't overly memorable, but it is mindless entertainment and an excellent summer flick.

Watch the credits for a blooper reel.

Central Intelligence (2016) 107 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for crude and suggestive humor, some nudity, action violence and brief strong language
Director: Rawson Marshall Thurber
Starring: Kevin Hart as Calvin "Golden Jet" Joyner
Dwayne Johnson as Bob Stone
Amy Ryan as Agent Pam Harris
Aaron Paul as Phil Stanton
Danielle Nicolet as Maggie Johnson-Joyner
Jason Bateman as Trevor Olson