There are a few things that can beat a good light-hearted comedic film. A film that is flippant, forthright in what it wants to be, and not afraid to shout it from the rooftops. The Pest is one of those films, While it’s not a prestige picture, it is certainly a winner in its own right.

When self-proclaimed scheming scam artist, Pestario Rivera Garcia Picante Salsa Vargas (or Pest for short) enters into a deal with a German billionaire, he has to spend 24 hours
while avoiding death, seduction, and alienating the family of his girlfriend to win a $50,000 scholarship. It’s a modern take on a classic “survival of the fittest” tale with a real 90s twist. The Pest has to use his charm and skills in order to navigate both the natural and the concrete jungle.

I just wanted to also shout out the theme song of The Pest, Voodoo Mambo, a surprisingly catchy anthem that sets the tone and the heart of the film so well. It serves as a fitting setting to the late 90s Miami backdrop. It’s fun, fresh, and feels totally in character. Accompanied by interesting sets and a strong cast of supporting roles help make this film a joy to behold.

John Leguizamo (eleven years before his appearance in The Happening) plays The Pest in a surprisingly hyperactive fashion, watching him perform is like watching a Looney Tunes cartoon come to life, an impressive feat for a live action film. You can tell he’s having a heck of a time with the material, considering he shares a story credit, you can tell he’s generally excited about this project, It helps make the film enjoyable. He is joined by Jeffery Jones who plays the Neo-Nazi with an equal amount of comedy and menace.

The Pest remains an endearing film, bringing the hyperactivity energy of Leguizamo to full force. Accompanied by a unique take on a classic story. It’s a zany popcorn film that serves as an entertaining cohesively fun thrill-ride. It’s also has a wide variety of jokes that anybody can enjoy. From diarrhoea and fart jokes to social commentary. In the words of Voodoo Mambo “Damn it’s terrific!”

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