A former child- star of the Salsa dance circuit, Bruce (Nick Frost – Shaun of the Dead) loved to compete but some bullies changed his persuasions. Now an out of shape adult, he seems to be content with an ordinary life until he falls for his new boss (Rashida Jones – Parks and Recreation). Now armed with a new sense of purpose, Bruce goes back onto the dance floor to wow the object of his affections whilst challenging the smarmy Drew (Chris O’Dowd – The IT Crowd) for her hand.
Cuban Fury is a by-the-numbers rom-com that certainly entertains but doesn’t possess anything truly memorable. Nick Frost brought this idea to the big screen and his enthusiasm is clear to see. It just would have been good to aim a little higher with the script and physical comedy.
Nick Frost is very watchable as Bruce and certainly has charisma and charm to boot. You’ll scratch your head as to why Rashida Jones is in this but the talented US actress does well as the token love interest, even if her role should have been expanded to more than just eye candy. Chris O’Dowd brings his unmistakable smirk to the role but a mid-way dance off between his character and Frost’s seems too obvious and orchestrated. Surely this should have taken place on the dance floor, not a car park?
The rest of the support is good with Olivia Colman doing well as Bruce’s sister, always on hand for worldly advice. Ian McShane copiously slaps on the fake tan and makes for a very entertaining dance instructor but it’s a scene-stealing Kayvan Novak that leaves you with the biggest laughs. His outlandish demeanour and ridiculous one-liners will have you in stitches.
Cuban Fury is perfectly forgettable fodder that won’t leave a lasting mark. The comedy is good, the performances are all solid and the story is predictable but still interesting. It’s just a shame that after the dance-floor confetti settles this isn’t the classic British comedy it should have been.
