This might be a controversial opinion, but the saying ‘aged like a fine wine’ should be reserved exclusively for films of Paul Blart: Mall Cop’s calibre. Sure, there are glaring plot holes, pointless characters, and plenty of missed opportunities but in my opinion, Kevin James’ performance is as hilarious as they come. The movie follows Paul (Kevin James), a lovable but bumbling guy who has repeatedly flunked out of police academy due to his hypoglycaemia, sabotaging his attempts to conquer the mandatory obstacle course. Instead, he finds a job as a security guard at his local mall, West Orange Pavilion. The first act takes its time to build the world around Paul Blart, portraying him as an underdog who’s often the butt of jokes among the mall’s employees. This slower pace allows the audience to get to know Paul’s earnest personality and introduces Amy (Jayma Mays), his dream girl and a key player in a redemption story.
Produced by Adam Sandler, the movie quickly shifts into fifth gear when the mall is taken over on Black Friday by a gang of robbers led by Veck Sims (Keir O’Donnell). Paul is the only one left uncaptured, hilariously, he’s playing Guitar Hero in the mall arcade at the time of the siege. With no backup on the way, and both his daughter Maya (Raini Rodriguez) and Amy among the hostages, Paul must rise to the occasion and become the unlikeliest of heroes. What unfolds is a cult classic with obvious similarities to Die Hard, though the action may not be as tense, it’s undeniably funnier. The comedic set pieces are laugh-out-loud hilarious and have spawned iconic memes still around today. Kevin James zipping through the mall on a Segway isn’t just funny, it’s cinematic gold; that image alone has become a core memory for an entire generation of movie fans. Speaking of James, his performance brings a perfect mix of goofyness and charm, making Paul Blart someone you root for from start to finish. The film’s humour is accessible and well-timed and that still holds up even years after its release.
But what I enjoy most about Paul Blart: Mall Cop, beyond the laughs, is the film’s genuinely uplifting message about perseverance and self-belief. It’s a film that embraces the idea that heroes come in all shapes and sizes and that anyone can achieve something great if they put their mind to it. The ending may be somewhat predictable, but it stays true to the film’s heart-warming narrative and consistent comedic tone and in this case, that’s exactly what makes it work. It’s the perfect feel-good conclusion to an unexpectedly charming story.
