Graeme and Clive, a nerd duo from Britain, travel to Los Angeles for Comic-Con and a road-trip across the Southwestern US to tour alien visitation sites. One night, they encounter Paul, a stranded extraterrestrial who pleads to hitch a ride, much to the interest of Graeme and chagrin of Clive. They learn that Paul is being chased by men-in-black from a shadowy government agency, and gradually about Paul's unique alien abilities, and the influence he's had upon science-fiction pop-culture (given his "familiar" appearance). The quick pace of the feds closing in on Paul and his friends are the only thing increasing their urgency to help Paul find his way home.
Paul exceeded my expectations for a comedy: it has a great cast, and a pretty original take on the alien visitation story. While there were a couple of the usual cliches associated with the genre, from time-to-time, this was wonderfully balanced out by anything hilarious that managed to rear it's head. Seth Rogen brings an amazingly fresh presence as the voice Paul, himself. Rather than play him as drunk, clumsy, or perpetually foulmouthed, as we've seen in films like this before, his portrayal of Paul is more akin to the slacker-type. Paul is much more laid-back, headstrong, and doesn't come off as a mere special effect, he's easily the most interesting character in the whole film. I wish we got to learn a little more about his backstory, but sequels can always change that. Paul is sure enough to be my vote for funniest movie of the year, unless The Hangover Part II, manages to change that.
Paul's introduction -
9/10
Peace,
- Jon
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