Writer: Hanna Zainal

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Watch this if you liked: "Wild Hogs", "Night At The Museum"

John Travolta and Robin Williams team up in this family comedy meant for kids to redirect their careers into the family-oriented market. Like Eddie Murphy before them, they have also moved onto this genre. But we've known that all along judging by their recent releases, Travolta with "Bolt" and Williams with the "Night At The Museum" movies. The two, no longer strapping young actors in Hollywood are now forced to star in roles that require father figures or even, grandfather figures.

The story, as the title indicates, is about two middle-aged men who are successful sports agents and have been friends for nearly three decades. They have never experienced the joys of family life, though Williams character Dan Rayburn has been married and divorced twice before! Travolta's character Charlie Reed is the ever-single bachelor. One day, Dan's second ex-wife Vicki Greer (Kelly Preston) comes back into his life and informs him that they have two children together, seven year-old twins Emily (Ella Bleu Travolta) and Zach (Conner Rayburn). Vicki wants the children to get to know their father as he is still around.

Due to Vicki having to do time in jail because of a trespassing case, and her friend Jenna (Rita Wilson) injured due to Dan, he is forced to look after the children. This is where the fun begins as we see how the two bachelors learn to adapt with children in their lives. Dan recruits Charlie to assist him, as Charlie was the one who introduced Vicki to him. They have to juggle taking care of the children while managing one of their biggest ever sports deals ever with a Japanese firm.

It's interesting to note that this is an all Travolta family affair as we see the likes of John Travolta, Kelly Preston and their daughter Ella star in this film. Making her film debut here, Ella does a pretty good job as Emily though it was odd to see Robin Williams playing her father. The same goes to Rayburn as her brother Zach. Among the most notable supporting characters are Seth Green as the high-pitch screamer Craig White, Lori Loughlin as the Japanese translator Amanda, and the late Bernie Mac in his last role as the famous children's entertainer Jimmy Lunchbox.

There are also special comedic appearances by actors Matt Dillon, Justin Long, and Dax Shepard. If you're looking for a movie to bring the family to, then this heart-warming film is it!

Cinema Online, 28 December 2009