If there’s one thing we can rely on every summer, it’s the release of some fun movies. A great example is the zany offering “Hot Rod”. This film builds on the premise that Rod Kimble’s step-father (Frank) is a bully and Rod needs to take him down a notch or two. The problem we soon see is that Daddy Dearest has major health problems. Rod plans to raise money to save Frank by performing a never-before-completed stunt jump.

In the meantime we learn that Frank has a biological son named Kevin Powell, who turns out to be a supportive step-brother for Rod. To learn more about how Rod trains for his mission and to donate money for Frank, be sure to visit Kevin’s site.

This Paramount Pictures, Michaels/Goldwyn Production “Hot Rod” will come to theaters on August 3, 2007. Many familiar names compose the cast as well as some on their way to sure stardom. They include Andy Samberg of Saturday Night Live (SNL) fame; Isla Fisher noted for her role as the sex-crazed sister in the equally zany “Wedding Crashers”; Ian Mc Shane television and film star (Deadwood (for which he won a Golden Globe, Lovejoy, and “Sexy Beast” among a multitude of others; and Sissy Spacek, another award winner who’s career spans over 35 years. You may remember her from “Carrie” or “Coal Miner’s Daughter”. Pam Brady (“South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut) wrote the hilarious script, and Akiva Shaffer directed. He currently writes for SNL as well directs their Digital Shorts and music videos. This film is not yet rated.

You’ll find short videos, photos, and more information on “Hot Rod” as well as “Stuntman Forever” on My Space as well as their individual websites.

Movie Plot

Rod Kimble fancies himself a talented stuntman and spends hours perfecting his art. In the meantime Frank, his step-dad can’t seem to harass him enough. During their sparring sessions Frank throws Rod around, humiliating him at every turn. When Frank becomes so ill he needs major surgery, it’s a mixed blessing for Rod. He gets the chance to showcase his biggest stunt ever and if he pulls it off he’ll not only become famous, he’ll also be able to pound the daylights out of Frank. If he fails he faces the ultimate debasement because if Frank lives he’ll have the last laugh and Rod’s audience will quickly disappear.

Rod idolizes the now aging and retired Evel Knievel, who ultimately jumped over 13 double-decker and 14 Greyhound buses while perched on his motorcycle. Rod sets a goal of soaring over a total of 15 buses. With the money raised from ticket sales he’ll become famous and be able to pay for Frank’s operation.

Andy Samberg

Whether or not you’ve seen Andy on SNL, you’ll fall in love with this loveable goofball. His and Chris Parnell’s hysterically funny short video “Lazy Sunday: Chronicles of Narnia”, released in December 2005, broke viewing records for My Space and NBC. He and all the talent in and behind the scenes of “Hot Rod” and “Stuntman Forever” provide some rollicking good fun that you’ll want to see over and over.