Synopsis
Struggling comic Lance Barton knows what it's like to die on stage. But when his life takes an unexpected turn - straight to heaven - Lance is sure there's been a mistake. Miraculously, he's right! An angel tells Lance he was taken prematurely but assures him he can be returned to Earth - in the aged body of a ruthless white billionaire. In this improbable reincarnation, Lance begins a hilarious quest to realize his showbiz dream...and, along the way, discovers the person he never imagined he could be. Chris Rock delivers a first-rate performance in this romantic comedy remake of HEAVEN CAN WAIT.
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Cast
- Chris RockLance Barton
- Regina KingSontee Jenkins
- Chazz PalminteriKing
- Eugene LevyKeyes
- Frankie FaisonWhitney Daniels
- Greg GermannSklar
- Jennifer CoolidgeMrs. Wellington
- Wanda SykesWanda
- John ChoPhil Quon
- Mario JoynerApollo M.C.
Recommendations
- 75
Entertainment Weekly
When Rock finds his authentic swing as an actor as well as a comedian, he'll be, like, a movie god. - 63
Boston Globe
A little too shipshape, too eager to please, not quite as anarchic as the best comedies. - 60
Chicago Reader
It's slight but likable, and diverting enough as light entertainment. - 60
Village Voice
There is a lot of electricity running in these cables, and directors Chris and Paul Weitz, responsible for "American Pie," know how to tap enough of it that almost every minute of Down to Earth is entertaining. But not quite surprising. - 50
USA Today
This remake is shorter than its predecessors, a welcome earthly reward. - 50
New York Post
Plays to none of Rock's strengths (even though he co-wrote the film with members of his HBO team) and intensifies his tendency to mug and shout. - 25
San Francisco Chronicle
Beatty's "Heaven Can Wait," released in 1978, was a comic fantasy about a near-death experience. This new version is a near-life experience. - 20
Los Angeles Times
Rock is undisputably gifted and charismatic, but when Down to Earth takes his edge away, the film's energy goes with it. And without energy, no comedy can survive.
