Can you hear that creaking noise? It's the sound of the Farrelly brothers-led "Hall Pass" straining beneath the weight of the huge -- and ever-growing -- ensemble cast. A group that currently includes Owen Wilson, Amanda Bynes, Jenna Fischer, "The Office" star Stephen Merchant, "Saturday Night Live" comic Jason Sudeikis, "Curb Your Enthusiasm" favorite J.B. Smoove (LEON!), Nicky Whelan and Derek Waters.
Today, The Hollywood Reporter brings the news that four more have joined the cast: Christina Applegate, Alyssa Milano, "According to Jim" star Larry Campbell and "Weird Science" TV series star Vanessa Angel. Whew.
Frankly, I think Peter and Bobby Farrelly are due for a hit. They've been quiet these past few years, their most recent effort being "The Heartbreak Kid" in 2007, which didn't fare so well with critics or at the box office. In the brothers' defense, the Ben Stiller-starring comedy came at the peak of the actor's insane overexposure during the mid-Aughts.
We're talking about the guys who were responsible for some of the funnier comedies of the '90s, such as "There's Something About Mary," "Kingpin" and even "Dumb & Dumber." Even "Osmosis Jones" (2001) had some strong moments. They've never again managed to recapture the magic of 1998's "Mary," but their irreverent sense of humor has remained a constant over time.
The solid cast of known and niche favorites they've assembled bodes very well. And the story, involving two married men who are given free reign by their wives to cheat for one week -- I wonder what the wives get in return? -- is classic Farrelly lunacy. I have high hopes indeed for this one.
What do you think of the latest casting news? What is your favorite Farrelly movie? What is your favorite Farrelly movie AFTER "There's Something About Mary"?
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