Bubba Ho-Tep

There's no denying that Don Coscarelli's Bubba Ho-Tep has an...unusual premise. Elvis Presley and John F. Kennedy fighting off a mummy in the retirement home they're stuck in. But that premise alone makes you want to check it out, yes?

Coscarelli's roster of regulars in Bubba Ho-Tep is led by Bruce Campbell (as Elvis) and Ossie Davis (as Kennedy -- yes, it makes just as much sense in context). And boy, are they a riot. Campbell is clearly having a blast in his role while Davis (who passed away a few years after this) is much the same. Just goes to show a decent script goes a long way.

Speaking of which, there's something to be said about the script of Bubba Ho-Tep. Based on Joe R. Lansdale's novella, Coscarelli's script shows that a spark of imagination and creativity goes a long way. Because, honestly, who else comes up with such a premise and delivers on it? (Well, besides, Lansdale and Coscarelli, of course.)

But don't think that Bubba Ho-Tep is all laughs. It also shines a light on the price of fame, past regrets, and the cost of aging. If someone tried to add all of this on top of its premise, it'd be written off as too convoluted and overwrought. But Coscarelli keeps it poignant.

Bubba Ho-Tep isn't for everyone but if you're looking for some good entertainment, this is for you. With Campbell and Davis being a hoot together, that alone should warrant a look. (And again, the script's decent.)

My Rating: ****