Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)

Dodgeball is slightly better than your average comedy. Starring Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller, the story follows two rival gym owners and their ridiculous feud that spills over into a dodgeball tournament. It’s a short fun watch, but it does have it’s flaws. Let’s consider the pros and cons…

Pros: This movie has no right to work as well as it does, but there’s something endearing about an underdog story. Not only is the plot comical, but it progresses quickly and the sport itself is fun to watch. There’s something inherently funny about a dodgeball connecting with someone’s face and two wacky commentators shouting incessantly in the background. Lastly, the movie sends a positive message about accepting yourself for who you are. It’s a little heavy handed by the end, with the main character breaking the fourth wall and telling us “you’re perfect just the way you are”, but I give it points for trying.

Cons: Every character in Dodgeball is pretty one dimensional. Ben Stiller plays an irredeemable over-the-top asshole and Vince Vaughn plays a desperate underachiever with an underwhelming character arc. Neither are bad performances, but without depth and complexity, it’s hard to become invested in them. Along with simple characters, Dodgeball has a remarkably basic plot with few, if any surprises. It’s not a movie that requires much thought because everything is laid out on the surface, but it still has it’s charms.

I give Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story a B. It’s a short fun watch and doesn’t take itself too seriously. As long as you don’t take it too seriously, it’s an entertaining way to pass the time. Happy Watching!

“It’s a bold strategy Cotton, let’s see if it pays off for ’em”