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Jan Wahl Movie Review: 'Tower Heist'

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl's movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(KCBS) – Jan Wahl reviews "Tower Heist" where Eddie Murphy goes old school in his latest role, pairing with Ben Stiller in a comedy caper for the Madoff era. Also starring Casey Affleck, Alan Alda and Matthew Broaderick.

TOWER HEIST (PG-13)



Listen To Jan Wahl's Movie Review

The disparity between haves and have-nots gives relevance to this slick, lightweight crime caper comedy. Ben Stiller leads a strong ensemble as the longtime manager of a luxury Manhattan high rise. When Mr. Penthouse "Gazillionaire" (Alan Alda) steals billions from not only investors but the Tower staff..it's time for payback. Matthew Broderick, Casey Affleck, Gabouray Sidibe are enlisted to help..and the movie gives us enough of their characters to invest in their success...we root for them.

A refreshingly old school Eddie Murphy does not get enough screen time, also the case with Tea Leoni as an agent assigned to the case. The film is shot beautifully, especially the Thanksgiving Day Parade, and it's a good time at the movies, something we all need these days. It should have been smarter, with Leoni and Murphy fleshed out in longer sequences. Two and a half hats.

Watch On Video/DVD:

"Water For Elephants", "Crazy Stupid Love", "Cars 2", and "Magic Trip: Ken Kesey Across America"

See Now:

"The Way", "50/50", "Anonymous", "Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life" & "Moneyball"

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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