Action Point

Action Point is an exhilarating 2018 comedy film that encapsulates risk, comedy, and the perversely delightful twisted humor that one expects from popular jester figure, Johnny Knoxville. Besides Knoxville, who is primarily known for his famous "Jackass" stunts, the film boasts an impressive cast that includes Eleanor Worthington-Cox, Chris Pontius, Dan Bakkedahl, and Camilla Wolfson.

Directed by Tim Kirkby, known for his directorial work in television series such as Fleabag and Brockmire, the film serves as a cocktail of hilarity and danger. The narrative borrows vaguely from actual events centering on Action Park, a notoriously hazardous amusement park in New Jersey that operated during the late 1970s through the 1990s.

The central figure in the film is D.C. (played by Johnny Knoxville), a daredevil entreprenuer who owns and operates Action Point, a low-rent, out-of-control amusement park where the rides are designed with minimum safety for maximum fun. Inspired by his own melancholic nostalgia and the manic spirit of a jackass, D.C.'s irresponsible fantasy is a unique draw for thrill-seekers looking for a side order of danger with their fun.

The plot thickens when a corporate mega-park opens nearby, posing a threat to D.C.'s eccentric venture. Fuelled by unrelenting optimism and a resistance to bowing down to slick corporate competition, D.C. and his ragtag team of misfit employees decide to ramp up the excitement factor of Action Point. This means even more outrageous rides and an utter disregard for rules, regulations and common sense. D.C.'s park functions under the credo that a little scrape or bruise is a small price to pay for such adrenaline-fueled fun.

Parallel to this narrative, there's a heartwarming subplot involving D.C.'s teenage daughter Boogie (played by Eleanor Worthington-Cox). The summer narrative offers possibilities for estranged father-daughter bonding. Boogie’s visit to the park creates a sub-story of familial tension and reconciliation, showing a softer side to Knoxville's daredevil character and adding an unexpected emotional depth to the film.

Knoxville is in his prime in Action Point, easily moving between crazy stunts where his character puts his body on the line and moments of emotional sincerity when he tries to connect with his daughter. He brings a level of authenticity to the physical humor evident throughout the film, making you question what's scripted and what's pure reckless Knoxville.

Eleanor Worthington-Cox delivers a memorable performance as Boogie, a teenager caught between her loyalty to her unconventional dad and the inevitable pull of growing up and seeking her own independence. The dynamic between her and Knoxville is surprisingly heartening, giving a much-needed soul to the madness.

As you'd expect from a movie starring Johnny Knoxville, Action Point is replete with jaw-dropping stunts and pratfalls, many of them performed by Knoxville himself. Physical humor and slapstick gags are at the backbone of the film, set amidst the chaotic background of the wildest amusement park conceivable, providing non-stop laughter.

Meanwhile, Chris Pontius, of "Jackass" fame as well, provides an unique charm as the eccentric right-hand of Knoxville's character, adding another layer of high-energy humor to the proceedings with his unusual stunts and gags.

The film decorates its narrative with period-appropriate soundtrack evocative of the 70s and 80s, lending authenticity to its throwback amusement park setting. From a production standpoint, the filmmakers deserve kudos for recreating the unregulated spirit of yesteryear amusement parks down to their most whimsical and dangerous details.

In conclusion, Action Point takes audiences on a wild ride with its extreme humor, outrageous stunts, and surprising heart. It's a comedy excursion that proves once more Johnny Knoxville's enduring commitment to his craft of humor and thrill, while also featuring a supporting cast that adds depth and additional amusement to the story. Whether you're a fan of Knoxville and his stunt-based humor or you're just looking for a film that exemplifies comedic audacity, Action Point is sure to hold you in its irreverent, out-of-control grasp.