Today’s quick review: American Hero. Melvin Hesper (Stephen Dorff) is an underachiever with a kind heart, a party-going lifestyle, and telekinetic powers. To earn visitation rights for his son, Melvin must figure out how to clean up his act and make something of himself. His guide on the road to recovery is Lucille (Eddie Griffin), his lifelong best friend. As Melvin begins to shape up, he begins to use his powers to make a difference.
American Hero is a superhero comedy with low stakes and a subdued plot. The movie is framed as a documentary on Melvin; in practice this just means that the characters share their thoughts with the camera. The story focuses on Melvin’s attempts to live up to his potential, in spite of his bad habits. American Hero features mundane situations with only a touch of sci-fi. Most of the film is spent building up its characters and their relations.
However, American Hero doesn’t have much else going for it. Melvin and Lucille are both likable characters with a warm friendship. But the plot is next to nonexistent, the comedy boils down to Melvin’s easygoing personality, and the drama isn’t all that effective. Strangest of all, Melvin’s superpowers almost feel like an afterthought. Any other talent would have served the same purpose in the plot, and his use of his powers for heroism is brief.
On the whole, American Hero’s heart is not enough to make up for its lack of substance. It is a pleasant watch that doesn’t overstay its welcome, but its aimless plot and wasted premise mean that most viewers would be better off skipping it. For a more dynamic take on a similar premise, check out Hancock. For another faux documentary with heartfelt characters, check out Where’s Marlowe?. For a dark tale of superpowers gone wrong, check out Chronicle.
4.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.0 for decent characters but little plot.