Film review: Delivery Man

Delivery Man Director: Ken Scott Starring: Vince Vaughn, Cobie Smulders, Chris Pratt

** ⋆⋆

Vaughn plays the bewildered father of more than 500 when he is approached by many of the children he fathered through sperm donation 20 years ago. Although based on the charming and clever 2011 Canadian comedy, this remake seems to opt for something that tries to showcase Vaughn’s fading appeal under a different veil. The star plays the same character we have seen in many of his comedies – sarcastic, complacent, loveable-but-underachieving – although perhaps less dynamic than usual. One large plus is Pratt, making a surprisingly entertaining performance out of a standard, and potentially tedious, comedy support role. While the message is sweet-natured enough, there isn’t enough substance to truly engage with the film.

artslife@thenational.ae

Last 10 NBA champions

2017: Golden State bt Cleveland 4-1
2016: Cleveland bt Golden State 4-3
2015: Golden State bt Cleveland 4-2
2014: San Antonio bt Miami 4-1
2013: Miami bt San Antonio 4-3
2012: Miami bt Oklahoma City 4-1
2011: Dallas bt Miami 4-2
2010: Los Angeles Lakers bt Boston 4-3
2009: Los Angeles Lakers bt Orlando 4-1
2008: Boston bt Los Angeles Lakers 4-2

While you're here

National Editorial: What 'Fight Island' means for Abu Dhabi and the world

National Editorial: The UAE looks to cycling for exercise and for the planet

Gareth Cox: Sporting week in pictures, as Covid-19 makes its presence felt

Company profile

Name: Back to Games and Boardgame Space

Started: Back to Games (2015); Boardgame Space (Mark Azzam became co-founder in 2017)

Founder: Back to Games (Mr Azzam); Boardgame Space (Mr Azzam and Feras Al Bastaki)

Based: Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Industry: Back to Games (retail); Boardgame Space (wholesale and distribution)

Funding: Back to Games: self-funded by Mr Azzam with Dh1.3 million; Mr Azzam invested Dh250,000 in Boardgame Space

Growth: Back to Games: from 300 products in 2015 to 7,000 in 2019; Boardgame Space: from 34 games in 2017 to 3,500 in 2019

Greatest of All Time

Starring: Vijay, Sneha, Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, Mohan

Director: Venkat Prabhu

Rating: 2/5

Points to remember

Debate the issue, don't attack the person
Build the relationship and dialogue by seeking to find common ground
Express passion for the issue but be aware of when you're losing control or when there's anger. If there is, pause and take some time out.
Listen actively without interrupting
Avoid assumptions, seek understanding, ask questions