Based on the popular television show that lasted three season, Land of the Lost is a film about an outrageous has-been scientists whose theories are finally proven true when he is sucked through time. However, without social skills or common sense, Dr. Rick Marshall and his two sidekicks must overcome the odds and discover how to survive within a world unlike any other.
Starring the usually funny WIll Ferrell and up and coming laugh maker Danny McBride, I had high hopes for Land of the Lost (regardless of what I saw in the trailer). However, after a fifteen minute character introduction that saw Ferrell 'guest' on Matt Lauer's 'Today,' the film took a nosedive south, never fully recovering. As a result, the film offers little in the form of entertainment or humor, providing one more example of just how far Will Ferrell's career has gotten off-track.
Portraying Dr. Rick Marshall, a role originally made famous by Spencer Milligan, Will Ferrell retreats to his Old School antics of comedy. However, due to a lacking script and unfortunate set of events, the frolics didn't make much of a difference, giving the film only a minimal amount of humor and laughs. And while there is the Ferrell-trademark of a shirtless scene, the same gimmicks just don't stir up as much amusement as it did back in 2003.
Thankfully, where Ferrell and the script fail, co-star Danny McBride thrives. Taking the entire film on his back, naturally born sidekick McBride gives the performance of his young career. His wit and ferocious approach to the role of William Stanton, as well as his ability to work well with almost anyone, allows for this film to benefit from his involvement.
However, in the end, there is simply no saving this film. Sure the dinosaurs are cool, and you can make a case for the layout of the 'new world.' But the overly simplistic look of the alien creatures, as well as the ridiculous conclusion makes Land of the Lost an interesting homage to the original television series, but an unworthy 2009 feature film.
