Galaxy Quest (1999)

OK, so this is a cheap spoof. The clichés are aplenty. But it's fun. Simply and plain enjoyment of a parody. Tim Allen is like a first generation torpedo. He can't really be sent anywhere but straight forward. But as long as you get the target right in front of him he still hits. So with a good support cast and some good lines, he can actually be funny. Rickman truly is the fun part here, ironically. His exceptional disdain for his own part with his professional background makes for a great character to stabilize Allen's usual antics.

Otherwise, Allen is joined by Sigourney Weaver, Sam Rockwell, Tony Shalhoub and Justin Long for a most impressive cast. Particularly strange as Allen is headlining, but I differ.

David Newman is a very safe bet when it comes to comedy-scores and does another fine piece of work. Even in short sentimental pieces, this is a good score.

The level of detail is enough to satisfy even a sci-fi buff as myself, and the more attention you pay, the more fun it is. Even the special effects and cinematography are most satisfying. I do admit though that if you never saw Star Trek and have no clue who Robby the Robot is, there is really nothing here but Rickman's hardships and some set-pieces. The story follows a very familiar pattern and the same ups and downs and learning-curves as one usually sees in most comedies. Particularly towards the end when comedy is replaces by suspense/action, "Galaxy Quest" loses interest as it no longer plays to its strengths.

For us nerds, however, there are plenty of chuckles and recognizing nods. Even a couple of laughs!

6/10