Length: 125 minutes
Rating: PG-13
Release Date: 8/17/2001
Director: Jerry Zucker
Writer: Andrew Breckman
Cast: Breckin Meyer, Amy Smart, Whoopi Goldberg, Lanei Chapman,
Vince Vieluf, Seth Green, Cuba Gooding, Jr., Jon Lovitz, Kathy Najimy,
Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese, Dave Thomas, Wayne Knight, Kathy Bates,
Dean Cain, and Paul Rodriguez

There have been several movies that follow outrageous characters clambering over each other to reach some sort of grand prize. These movies tend to feature countless stupid jokes and silly gags; caricatures instead of characters; and a glimpse at the basest of human values — they show us that people will stop at almost nothing when they're driven by greed.

Rat Race has the stupid jokes, but they aren't quite as stupid (except the ones that are supposed to be). And most of the gags aren't quite as silly. Sure, the characters are still basically stock (as evidenced in the opening credits where each appears as a caricature), but the cast brings them to life with such energy and vigor that it doesn't really matter.

And you're sure to see these people doing things you have never seen before! Despite the fact that there have been so many films made with the same concept at its core, Rat Race is refreshing in its originality. What the filmmakers do with airport radar towers, cows, squirrels, helicopters, and a Barbie museum could very easily be called comic genius. And for once, the previews don't give away all the good parts. I guarantee some part of this movie will shock you! Although this film fits very neatly into the same category as all the other "race" movies that have come before, Rat Race offers so much more. Don't expect a whole lot of sophistication. We are, after all, dealing with a no-holds-barred race for money here. But if you're looking for some genuine laughs and ome surprising scenes, pick a contestant, place your bet, and cheer them on. These rats will definitely entertain.

See Finesse's Top 5 Race/Contest Movies

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