Reviews

I recently watched "The Pacifier" with my entire family and we were all pleased to see Vin Diesel in a film other than where he does the normal action film. I liked those films, but this is the one that I really love.

As Lt. Shane Wolfe, Diesel does an admirable job. He is uncomfortable at first in a father figure role - being more at home and comfortable shooting things. However, the kids begin to win him over (and the ninja scenes will give those looking for action something to cheer on). Diesel does an admirable job as the rough and tough father figure type, with more than enough understanding to win the kids over and to help them with more than just keeping them safe. Anyone could do that, but it takes a special person to help kids get over losing a parent. Diesel does that well.

Diesel shows more depth than just someone who likes to shoot things. He allows himself to look ridiculous (like in the Peter Panda dance), yet stands up for himself when Murney is being an idiot.

The rapport that he and the kids share is evident both on screen and off (in the DVD extras you can see his interaction with them as someone who genuinely loves kids). I thought that this was a wonderful step for Diesel to take. It showed that not every role has to be 'bad ass'. There is room for love too. It may start out weird, but if you try (as Diesel does) then it works.

One word about the child actors - they do a wonderful job. They start out as being brats, but when they realize that Shane is really there to help them and to keep them safe (and that he really does care), they open up to him. It was really touching to see a real family with real problems work them out on screen.

Lauren Graham and Brad Garrett were wonderful. Lauren does a great job NOT being Lorelai Gilmore (although she is wonderful as that too) and Garrett is hilarious. Where they got that international wrestling singlet, I don't know, but he was... funny.

The DVD extras are almost worth more than the movie. There are things that detail Brad Garrett, as well as letting you see Vin Diesel off set as a wonderfully nice guy. What a pleasure.

This movie is worth whatever you pay for it. I can't wait to add it to my collection.