Semi-Stupid

OK, so Semi-Pro doesn't have the metaphysical whimsy of Stranger than Fiction. And it wasn't as funny as Talladega Nights or Blades of Glory. Instead, it's just what you'd expect from a Will Ferrell sports comedy.

We get the backstory in a montage under the credits: It's the 70's, Ferrell had a "once-popular" disco hit, and used the money to buy the Flint Tropics, a lame ABA basketball team. He is team promoter, coach and forward. Pretty economic storytelling, maybe the last in the movie.

The conflict: The ABA is merging with the NBA, but only the 4 best teams - the rest will be dissolved. That means the Tropics, unless they can get some fans and win some games. Washed-up ex-Celtic Woody Harrelson is brought in, even though he can't jump.

You get Ferrell being manic, self-involved, supremely confident and incompetent (in scenes that look pretty improvised). You get goofy 70's atmosphere (fondue, the new taste sensation) and a funky soundtrack. You get sports training montages, games (Andre 3K as their star player) and goofy promotional stunts. You get the gritty glory of Flint Michigan.

Wish you got more laughs, but you take what you can get.