Sony’s latest movie “30 Minutes or Less” is a flick that doesn’t quite fit a genre. It’s an action movie, but the action is dull compared to others such as “Die Hard.” It’s a bank-robbing movie, but the bank robbery is such a short part of the film that it isn’t as defining. It’s a comedy, but audiences aren’t rolling in the aisles. Still, whatever it is, it works.
The film follows Nick (Jesse Eisenberg), a pizza delivery boy who guarantees food in fewer than 30 minutes. But when amateur criminals Dwayne (Danny McBride) and Travis (Nick Swardson) decide they need someone to rob a bank for them, the pizza boy becomes the perfect hostage and Nick becomes wrapped up in a foolish plan.
What keeps Nick involved in this scheme is the fact he has a bomb strapped to his chest, which can be remotely activated if he decides not to do what the criminals tell him. Fortunately, he has his best friend Chet (Aziz Ansari) to help him.
The movie’s simple plot keeps audiences easily engaged while little twists and quips from the characters provide pleasant surprises throughout the 83-minute runtime. The storyline flows smoothly, providing the right balance of action and dialogue while never leaving audiences tired or bored.
Ansari gives a fantastic performance, stealing many scenes and providing the majority of the laughs. Eisenberg, portraying a character very different from his role in “The Social Network,” also shines with the genuine performance of a regular guy trying to save his own life. His easygoing personality translates well on-screen, providing viewers with an instantly loveable character who is easily relatable.
Accepting the fact that it is a lighthearted film, “30 Minutes or Less” doesn’t try to be something it’s not. Director Ruben Fleischer, who also directed “Zombieland,” sticks to the basics and makes no attempt to give the movie more soul than the script asks for. This results in a fun and enjoyable movie that continues to entertain throughout. It is perfect for anyone looking for an amusing way to spend the summer, whether on a date, with friends or otherwise.
