Welcome to Movie Mondays, a weekly blog series that takes you on a cinematic odyssey through the world of film! Each week, we’ll dive into a list of my 100 least favorite movies, exploring what makes them fall short and discussing the lessons we can learn from their missteps. Remember that these low-ranking films are only that way based on my personal opinion. Something I hate may be something you love and no offense is intended. Wherever these movies fall for you, I invite you to grab some popcorn and join in on the debate over these films’ merits!

Joe Somebody

2001

Directed by John Pasquin

Hey there, film fanatics! Today, we’re diving into the mediocre depths of the 2001 comedy-drama, Joe Somebody, starring Tim Allen, Julie Bowen, and Hayden Panettiere. Strap in, because this ride is about as exciting as watching paint dry.

So, what’s the deal with Joe Somebody? Well, it’s the story of Joe Scheffer (Allen), a recently divorced dad who works as an audio/visual specialist at STARKe Pharmaceuticals. One day, Joe gets into a scuffle with his co-worker, Mark McKinney (Patrick Warburton), over a parking spot. McKinney proceeds to pummel poor Joe in front of his daughter, Natalie (Panettiere). Talk about a bad day at the office!

After this humiliating incident, Joe spirals into self-pity until Meg Harper (Bowen), the company’s Wellness Coordinator, accidentally inspires him to take action. Joe decides to challenge McKinney to a rematch to reclaim his dignity. Along the way, he enlists the help of a washed-up B-movie star turned martial arts instructor, Chuck Scarett (Jim Belushi), to teach him how to fight.

Now, I’ve got to be honest, folks. I’ve said it before… Tim Allen’s shtick just doesn’t do it for me outside of Galaxy Quest and the first Santa Clause movie. Joe Somebody feels like a rehash of every other Allen comedy, with the added bonus of a half-baked attempt at drama. The script, written by John Scott Shepherd, is about as bland as unsalted crackers, and even director John Pasquin’s “deft touch” (as described by Variety‘s Scott Foundas) can’t save it.

That being said, the film does have a few redeeming qualities. Greg Germann’s performance as the smarmy executive, Jeremy, is a standout, and Hayden Panettiere brings some much-needed heart to the story as Joe’s daughter. The behind-the-scenes tidbits are also mildly interesting, like the fact that the entire movie was shot in Minnesota over a grueling eight-week span.

But let’s be real, Joe Somebody is a far cry from the likes of Galaxy Quest or even The Santa Clause. It’s a predictable, paint-by-numbers comedy that tries way too hard to be heartwarming. I give it a resounding “meh” on the movie rating scale.

But hey, that’s just my two cents! What do you think, readers? Did Joe Somebody tickle your funny bone, or did it leave you yearning for something more substantial? Let me know in the comments below!