Critics Dismissed ‘Stuber’ but Audiences Found It Hilarious and Worth Watching

by

In 2019, I found myself teamed up with comedian Kumail Nanjiani in a hilarious buddy cop escapade, a movie called “Stuber”. It was quite an unusual duo, blending slapstick humor with perilous situations, and as far as the viewers were concerned, it was a riot. Audiences adored it, but the critics seemed to have a different take on this fish-out-water story about an Uber driver unwillingly dragged into a criminal investigation.

In a new take, Stuber features Dave Bautista portraying Vic Manning, an LAPD detective chasing down a drug lord named Tedjo who murdered his partner. Following a failed operation to capture Tedjo due to losing his spectacles, Vic opts for laser eye surgery and is yet to fully heal when he gets a tip about Tedjo’s whereabouts. Stranded without transportation, Vic takes control of a ride-share vehicle along with its driver (Nanjiani) as they embark on a relentless pursuit of the dangerous fugitive, stop by stop.

Critics Couldn’t Find the Funny in This Wacky Buddy Comedy

In the eyes of many critics, the film Stuber was generally panned, earning just 43% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. While some found pleasure in its quick-witted humor and unique exploration of masculinity, a majority felt it fell short. Critics described the plot as dull, slow, and unoriginal, labeling it an “action comedy that doesn’t deliver on either front.” Despite showing promise, critics argued that it squandered the talents of stars Dave Bautista and Kumail Nanjiani, deeming the movie a disappointing failure overall.

In my opinion, I found myself in the midst of a divide among fellow movie enthusiasts. While some viewers from multiple platforms have showered praise on the film, labeling it as phenomenal and side-splittingly funny, others have expressed disagreement. The film, Stuber, seems to hark back to the 90s with its emphasis on slapstick humor and exaggerated elements instead of a more intricate and nuanced plot. Some might view this as a drawback, and it’s clear that many critics share this sentiment. However, it’s important to remember that comedies aren’t typically renowned for their elaborate storylines. And even if they were, the true measure of a film’s merit lies in its ability to achieve its intended purpose, which is exactly what Stuber did for me.

In comedies, the main goal is to amuse the audience, and in that regard, the movie “Stuber” achieved its aim. Despite not being a financial triumph, as it only made $32 million against its production cost of $18 million, it can be considered a box office flop. However, many outstanding films have failed at the box office. The favorable audience feedback from viewers who watched “Stuber” suggests that it fulfilled its intended purpose.

Fans Loved the Combination of Bautista and Nanjiani

From the feedback of viewers on the movie Stuber, it appears that the standout aspect is the dynamic between Nanjiani and Bautista. The nervous, easy-going demeanor of Nanjiani’s Stu provides a perfect contrast to the intensely agitated persona of Bautista’s Vic. Audience members admire the rapport between the actors as they banter back and forth in quick, clever dialogue that extends beyond the script and showcases the natural abilities of both performers. Although he is renowned for his physical prowess, Bautista demonstrates a knack for comedy with his deadpan delivery. As a seasoned comedian, Nanjiani holds his own and even manages to work with Bautista’s energy.

While many viewers enjoyed the movie as a fun experience, some concurred with critics who felt that the film could have made better use of its leading actors’ talents. Some viewers found the action lacking, and there were several instances where the action seemed to hold back when it should have been more intense. For example, Nanjiani’s accidental shooting of a character was a notable instance of this; after the initial shock, the scene could have delved deeper into the absurdity and discomfort of the moment, but instead, it was dismissed with a casual pat on the back and an easy laugh.

While some might argue whether Stuber is worth a watch or not, I personally found it to be somewhat amusing, even with its critics’ reservations about its depth and adherence to typical buddy cop tropes. Yet, what truly sets this film apart is the hilarious duo of Bautista and Nanjiani. Despite a plot that could use a bit more substance, their performances and antics stand out brilliantly, making it perfect for those seeking a good chuckle.

Stuber is available to stream on Hulu.

Read More

2025-06-07 03:03