'30 Minutes or Less' does impress

Following the release of Zombieland, Ruben Fleischer emerged as one of Hollywood's most promising new visionaries. Though some have expressed indifference towards his latest effort, 30 Minutes or Less, it is clear that Fleischer has a lot to offer. The film is fresh, funny, offensive, over-the-top, and lewd, which is impressive for a sophomore effort.

The story centers on Nick (Jesse Eisenberg), an awkward, yet combative pizza delivery driver. Nick falls victim to a judicious robbery plan concocted by Dwayne (Danny McBride) and Travis (Nick Swardson); two nutso slackers who want money to start a tanning salon/brothel. Nick is kidnapped and forced to wear a bomb that will explode if he refuses to rob a local bank for them. Panicked, Nick seeks help from his friend Chet (Aziz Ansari) who reluctantly agrees to help him.

Some may be put off by the film’s politically incorrect tone. Several races and ethnicities are poked fun at in a way that some may find humorous and other may find gravely offensive. This is particularly true of Latinos, who are walking stereotypes in the film.

Eisenberg has made a career out of playing the non-treating/anti-hero you can't help but root for, and this film is no exception. The Oscar-nominated "Geek God" effectively conveys Nick's journey from an arrogant loner, who is pinning for Chet's sister Kate (Dilshad Vadsaria) to an assertive and in-the-moment smart guy.

Ansari proves a hilarious sidekick, though it is difficult to shake his well known Parks and Recreation role. McBride and Swardson are somewhat difficult to get on board with, since their characters have few redeeming qualities. Yet they both have great chemistry with one another, making this a double buddy film.