Set against the summer backdrop of a seemingly countless number of sequels, superhero flicks, and Disney re-makes, “Stuber” is a knowingly silly breath of fresh air. Falling victim to the same faults many of its action-comedy predecessors such as a one-note villain, a rushed conclusion, and more than a few action scenes that fall flat on their backs, what could have been a very modern, novel concept is frustratingly muddled by the decision to follow such conventions. Simultaneously fun and forgettable, its dependence upon current pop culture to propel the plot provides a very in-the-now sense of humor, creating a cute summer diversion that, while severely flawed, is an entertaining one-time watch.

A part-time Uber driver, mild-mannered Stu is trying to save up money to open a spin gym with his best friend and long-time crush. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Police Detective Vic is hot on the trail of a brutal killer and drug dealer Tedjo. Accidentally scheduling laser eye surgery on the day of his daughter’s gallery opening, he already has a full day ahead of him when he gets news on the location of an important drop. Unable to drive and having to be two places at once, Vic connects with an unsuspecting Stu on the app, recruiting him to be his driver until Tedjo is brought down for good. Realizing this is no average Uber ride, Stu’s attempts to extricate himself from the situation are to no avail as he and Vic learn more about each other en route from location to location.

Though Kumail Nanjiani and Dave Bautista make a fantastic duo, their great comedic chemistry cannot fully override the strongly routine and rushed feeling of the story. Nanjiani’s quick-witted, deadpan sense of humor mixes well with Dave Bautista’s much more forthright and aggressive delivery, making a strong case for future collaborations with hopefully better material. Though Kumail’s characters inherent sweetness seems crushed by excessive and, often, unnecessary crude humor and discussions. Also suffering from too many hard to follow, shaky-cam action sequences, its numerous downfalls threaten to take away from the genuinely clever portions of the film.

As a whole, “Stuber” is the perfect example of a mid-summer movie. It’s idea is fresh and the cast is strong, but it plays it too safe for its own good. Incredibly funny at parts but nearly as tiring in others, “Stuber” is enjoyable enough to watch once, but any more than that would be a chore.

Grade: C+

Rose Dunton, originally of Nampa, has been living in Pocatello for the past four years. Proficient in Japanese, she is an avid film buff.