The Three Stooges: The Movie

Relying on the frantic, foolishly funny slapstick that characterized the two-reel shorts made by the manic comedic trio known as the Three Stooges, filmmakers Peter and Bobby Farrelly try here to re-create the nostalgically amusing antics of these bungling, uninhibited bumblers. Divided into three episodes, the opening section chronicles how short-tempered Moe (Chris Diamantopoulos), savvy Larry (Sean Hayes), and dimwitted Curly (Will Sasso) were dumped in a duffle bag on the doorstep of the Sisters of Mercy Orphanage. Almost immediately, the trio wreak havoc, terrorizing the nuns, including beatific Sister Bernice (Kate Upton), singing Sister Rosemary (Jennifer Hudson), sinister Sister Mary-Mengele (Larry David in drag) and their long-suffering, kindhearted Mother Superior (Jane Lynch). Ultimately, the stooges grow up (chronologically speaking) and embark on adventures in the outside world, including an effort to raise $830,000 in 30 days to satisfy Monsignor Ratliffe (Brian Doyle-Murray) or the bankrupt orphanage will close. As their various schemes to make money fail, the situation becomes more desperate, particularly when irascible Moe is chosen to be “Dyna-Moe,” the newest cast member on TV's Jersey Shore, prompting cameos by Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi and Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, among others. While the nyuks are uneven here, this is still a strong optional purchase. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include deleted and extended scenes (10 min.), a “Mash-Up” montage (3 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are the production featurettes “What's the Big Idea? A History of The Three Stooges” (11 min.), “Poifect! Casting” (9 min.), “Knuckleheads: Behind the Scenes” (5 min.), and “Did You Hear That? Sound Effects” (4 min.), along with original screen tests (4 min.), and bonus DVD and digital copies of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a lame comedy.] (S. Granger)