Evan Almighty Review

Steve Carell, is a newly elected congressman from Buffalo  who is commanded by God (Morgan Freeman) to build an ark.

That's the premise.  The execution is fairly predictable and very wholesome, safe and nice-- too nice perhaps, but I expected this too be a little sappy and corny.  It is.

It is also light and amusing with some nice supporting work from Wanda Sykes, John Goodman and others.   There's four or five pretty big laughs in the movie, several chuckles and enough warmth to power a small city.  Yes it's too bland to call a great movie... I give it 3 and a half stars  raised up to 4.

If that's NOT the kind of movie you want to see-- then skip this one.  If you want a family film with a wholesome message, made nicer than how it was originally delivered... then go see this one.   You'll be thoroughly entertained. 

Oh and stay for the final credits.... fun fun fun.

If your going to go... even though I'm not going to spoil the movie for you... you can skip the rest of the review which will is going to mostly praise the folks who are in it and tell you a little more detail about it.   

Carrel's Evan is a nervous clean freak career driven newsman turned politician. He's got a wonderful family consisting of a dedicated wife played by Lauren Graham (of Gilmore Girls fame) and three sons.  They move to a huge brand new house in a new development in Virginia outside of Washington D.C.  The Lord starts sending strange packages and huge pile of pre-cut wood to the house.   

John Goodman a corrupt committee chairman takes Evan under his wing, giving Evan a great office.  You know something is up, but Evan wants to make a good first impression.

The Lord however can be convincing when he wants his ark build and the animals start following Evan around which leads to a really wonderful funny sequence.  Then there's the hair and beard and the clothes and....  well see it for  yourself.   Molly Shannon does an extended cameo as an passionate realtor.  Some of Steve's Daily show buddies have bits, including Jon Stewart.

I prefer this kindler gentler and better paced film to Jim Carrey's  Bruce Almighty... but then I like Steve better than Jim....

Enjoy 

Note:  I could have sworn I wrote my review of this movie.... but only one seems to pop up !!!