The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy

Englishman, Arthur Dent (Martin Freeman) is shocked when he discovers that his house is to be demolished to make way for a by-pass. He is even more shocked when his friend Ford (Mos Def) tells him that he is an alien and that planet Earth is to be demolished to make way for a hyperspace express route.

To escape the destruction, Ford and Arthur hitch a ride on the Vogan spaceship that is destroying Earth. Arthur has a million questions, so Ford gives him a copy of the electronic book "The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy". The book has the comforting words "Don't Panic" on the cover! Easier-said-than-done when the Vogan's find the two stowaways on board their ship...

This film version of the books, TV series and Radio programs is attracting a lot of attention. There is a strong cult following of the original stories and programmes and the fans will tell you that this is classic comedy. I have to admit that before watching this film version I knew little or nothing about The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy. I'm not able to say whether it stays true to the original ideas, characters or storyline. Perhaps you need to be familiar with the books and story but as someone who isn't, I found it a bit silly and pointless.

The film has a British, Monty Python, style of humour. With very little plot this is a quirky mix of sci-fi and comedy. It comes across as a number of sketches or skits, and it's a bit of a muddle. Occasionally clever, but mostly silly, the film just isn't funny enough. Maybe I missed something or maybe it just doesn't work on the big screen. Either way if this is The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy it doesn't live up to it's reputation of comic genius. I can't see what all the fuss is about.

Martin Freeman, well known for his part in 'The Office', plays the main character, Arthur Dent. Arthur's world is turned on its head when he discovers that we are not alone in the universe! Worst still he finds himself hitchhiking around the galaxy when planet Earth is destroyed. He is quite a likeable character who has a clueless expression on his face most of the time.

Mos Def and Sam Rockwell play their part but don't really leave an impression while others like John Malkovich are totally under-used.

Bottom Line: I think this film is only for the fans. Some clever ideas but generally silly. Sketchy with very little story. Not very funny.

Reviewed by Niall Quinn, Premier Movie Reviews 2005.

RELATED MOVIE REVIEWS:  MOS DEF:   The Italian Job,  The Woodsman.  SAM ROCKWELL:  Charlies Angels,  Matchstick Men,  Welcome To Collinwood.  BILL NIGHY:  Love Actually.

Genre: Sci-fi comedy

Director: Garth Jennings

Certificate: The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy was rated 12A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of twelve years of age and upwards. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult. The movie contains moderate comic violence.

Official Movie Website: The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy

~ Main Cast ~

Martin Freeman

Mos Def

Sam Rockwell

Zooey Deschanel

John Malkovich

Bill Nighy