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Blu-ray Review


DVD cover

Kindergarten Cop (1990)
(2019 Reissue)

 

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Penelope Ann Miller, Pamela Reed and Linda Hunt
Distributor: Fabulous Films Ltd / Fremantle Media Enterprises
RRP: £14.99

FHEB3669

Certificate: 15
Release Date: 01 April 2019


Jon Kimble is a tough police detective who goes undercover as a kindergarten teacher in order to catch Cullen Crisp a dangerous criminal. The only one who can testify against him is his ex wife but she has disappeared. The only lead Kimble has is the name of the school her son attends. Once he wrangles his young charges, as well as the affections of a beautiful teacher, he prepares for a final showdown with his intended prey...

I remember seeing this, when it was originally released, and enjoying it. It was a chance to see action hero Arnold Schwarzenegger turn his hand to comedy, and it worked surprisingly well... or so my memory recalled.

Rewatching this almost 30 years later it's not overly surprising to discover that it's aged quite badly. Most of the jokes are a little flat, but it still has its moments. The first act is a little weird and off of kilter with the rest of the movie, but as Schwarzenegger was predominately known for his action hero roles - not to mention the mother of all homicidal cybernetic organism: The Terminator franchise's T-800 / T-850 - this was designed to show that the character is a tough undercover officer whose target is a ruthless killer.

The kids remain the stars of the film, with the comedy coming from Kimble's inability to connect with them, or keep them under control. But as the story progresses, and he uses police training tactics to bring them into line, the film turns into a sweet movie, with the kids and Kimble finding mutual respect for each other.

It's not the sort of film that rewards with repeat viewing and while enjoyable it's not one that you'll be rewatching any time soon. Plus, it's rated 15, so it's not even a suitable family movie to keep the kids entertained on a wet weekend.

The only extra is the original trailer (2 min, 23 sec).

6

Nick Smithson

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