When you think night school is boring, check out Night School, the 2018 comedy where Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish team up to create laughter, but the result feels more like a homework assignment done just enough to pass than an A-grade effort.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Teddy (Kevin Hart) is a successful salesman who gets fired after trashing his workplace. He discovers he needs a high school diploma to find a new job, so he returns to night school. There he meets teacher Carrie (Tiffany Haddish), who dislikes troublemakers like him, and Stewart (Taran Killam), an old bully who won't stop harassing him. The film follows a standard comedy formula: the protagonist must overcome obstacles and learn life lessons.
Acting and Characters
Kevin Hart does well in his usual comedic role, but Teddy lacks depth to make the audience root for him. Tiffany Haddish shines every time she appears, with natural comedic timing and good chemistry with Hart. Unfortunately, Carrie's role is confined to a strict teacher who gradually opens up. Supporting characters like Jaylen (Romany Malco) and Stewart (Taran Killam) are used as clichéd comic relief, especially Stewart whose role feels exaggerated and unbelievable.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Director Malcolm D. Lee opts for a standard comedy style, with close-ups and straight-on angles to emphasize actors' reactions. The overall look is unremarkable, with bright colors typical of comedies. David Newman's score helps drive emotions but is forgettable. The pacing drags in the middle, causing the fun to wane at times.
Editorial Analysis
Night School tries to weave in social issues about the importance of education and not judging people by appearances, but these are overshadowed by repetitive jokes and predictable situations. The film lacks creativity in subverting expectations. Its strongest point is the performances of Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish, which elevate the weak material. However, for comedy fans looking for a light, mindless watch, this film might suffice to some extent.
Verdict
Night School is a passable comedy for a lazy day, but not a must-watch. If you're a fan of Kevin Hart or Tiffany Haddish, you might enjoy their chemistry. But if you expect a groundbreaking or deep comedy, look elsewhere.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish's chemistry creates fun
- +Several jokes are genuinely funny
- +The film has a message about education and giving chances
👎 Cons
- −Predictable and clichéd script
- −Middle section drags with repetitive content
- −Villain is written as overly exaggerated and unrealistic
Top Cast
FAQ
The film is rated PG-13, so in Thailand it's likely suitable for teenagers and up, due to mild crude humor and language.
Currently, no sequel has been announced. The film performed moderately at the box office and received mixed reviews.
Not as popular as Jumanji or Central Intelligence, but it has a fan base among Kevin Hart followers.
