There was a time when National Lampoon’s was known for their comedic presence, with classics like the Vacation franchise, Animal House, and their first decent production in ten-years – Van Wilder. Since then they have seldom come out with anything remotely humorous, usually brining in novelty has been or never was actors/actresses to fill the roles, such as Paris Hilton (Pledge This), Vida Guerra (Dorm Daze 2), and David Faustino (Pucked). I’ll admit having not seen or even h…ard of this movie prior to now, I’m a little curious to see what’s come of David Faustino (Bud Bundy from Married with Children) as well as Bon Jovi and his bleached white teeth.
The plot is very simplistic, Frank Hopper (Bon Jovi) was formerly a lawyer who has since become a dreamer residing in his sister’s garage. Carl (David Faustino) is Frank’s loyal best friend whom is slightly more successful as of late. While out looking for a birthday present for his mom, Frank fills out a credit application that he presumes to be a survey; jokingly he fills out his annual income as a million dollars. Before long he gets a high limit credit card in the mail, in his eyes this is a way to finance his newly realized get rich dream – an all-woman hockey league.
Over a short period of time Frank continues to receive pre-approved credit cards, in total allotting over 200. He uses the cards to rent a Cadillac, impress an old flame, and start out his league, but along the way catches the eyes of the credit card companies to whom he now owes over $300,000.
Pucked follows suit of what can be expected from National Lampoon’s these days; dismal humor with weak and implausible storylines. To be honest I don’t recall laughing once during this film, at best there were a few semi-humorous lines that made me crack a smile. In a movie like this it’s really hard to gauge someone’s acting abilities, everything is so sarcastic or laid back, but I think it’s safe to say that Bon Jovi isn’t as talented an actor as he is a musician. David Faustino as well wasn’t anything special, but it sure was nostalgic finally seeing Bud Bundy back on the screen.
In the end, Pucked was a weak movie. The few semi-humorous scenes were over shadowed by a seemingly endless amount of wannabe funny scenes. Unless you’re a diehard National Lampoon’s fan, stay clear of Pucked.
Video
Pucked is presented in a 1.85:1 widescreen format, but leaves much to be desired. For a movie that runs under 90 minutes, it was disappointing to see some noticeable compression artifacts from time to time, usually when lighting conditions were low. Detail never was impressive, although it was never horrid looking either. Color levels were average, never looking too dull or too saturated, except for Bon Jovi’s blinding teeth. In the end we are given a mediocre transfer for a mediocre movie.
Audio
Pucked was obviously filmed on a low budget and it shows in the films quality, surprisingly however, the films audio track is this discs strongest point. The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track will rarely leave you impressed but it does however present the film as best it could. Dialogue and music sound pretty nice but rely on the front channels a bit too much; you will rarely hear subtle effects from the rear. Of course when the women are actually playing a live match the track does come more alive but it never becomes something to get excited about. Overall, Pucked has an average audio track, nothing in here will blow you away but given the films material it does what it can with it.
Special Features
As could be expected, Pucked doesn’t boast much in the special features department, with two featurettes – PooNanny and Dirty Old Man – that basically showcase most of the actresses topless. I’m sure there are many of you who would consider that a pretty solid line-up of features, so take into account when I rate them I’m not considering that as a factor.
Final Thoughts
I’m just still surprised that Pucked wasn’t a movie about a bunch of drunken college students as per National Lampoon’s typical movie. That being said I give them a bit of credit for changing up the typical formula. That credit doesn’t go too far though because the movie was disappointing, but even so better than other Lampoon soirées like Dorm Daze, Gold Diggers and Pledge This. The features are weak, the audio and video are typical of low budget DVD; nothing special. Overall this disc was disappointing and I have a hard time recommending it to anyone, unless you just can’t resist but to stare at those glaring white teeth provided by Mr. Jovi.
Special Features List
- Two Featurettes
