Writer: Adam Sandler, Allen Covert, Brooks Arthur, Brad Isaacs
Starring: Adam Sandler, Jackie Sandler, Austin Stout, Rob Schneider, Kevin Nealon, Norm Crosby, Jon Lovitz
Review: Davey Stone (Adam Sandler), a 33-year old party animal, finds himself in trouble with the law after his wild ways go too far. In keeping with the holiday spirit, the judge gives Davey one last chance at redemption -- spend the holiday performing community service as the assistant referee for the youth basketball league or go to jail. Davey thinks he's gotten off easy until he meets Whitey Duvall (also Adam Sandler), the eccentric, elf-like head referee. Can Whitey and Davey's former crush Jennifer (Jackie Sandler) help Davey down his path to redemption? Eight Crazy Nights is nothing short of a critical disaster, but I personally don't see why it catches all of the flack that it does. Yes, this film is filled to the brim with foul-mouthed, raunchy toilet humor, but beneath that is a good redemption story with a solid message. After meeting Davey Stone, we quickly learn that the error of his ways stems from the death of his parents as a child. This story shows that we as a society should not always be quick to judge one another without learning more about each other. It also demonstrates that people sometimes deserve a second chance. The Whitey Duvall character also teaches us the lesson to not take people for granted and appreciate the generosity and goodness in those around us. The pacing in this film is quick, and the musical numbers are catchy as well. Overall, I think this movie delivers some well-intended reminders, especially around the holiday season. There are quite a few laugh out loud moments, even though it's certainly vulgar, crass, and shallow at times. I recommend that people give this movie a chance. If you've seen it and hate it, maybe try watching it through a different lens. If you pay close attention, you might find a welcomed layer of maturity beneath the obvious presence of immaturity on the surface.