It's all kept light and funny, but underlying the broad sight gags is a movie that actually has something to say about competition, fathers and sons, machismo and caffeine.

Will Ferrell has become the most unlikely embodiment of wholesome family fun since Fred MacMurray gave up film noir for My Three Sons.

This isn't the worst setup for a kiddie comedy, but it proves that Ferrell alone can't carry a film.

As disjointed as the whole thing is, it's often funny and, on a certain level, endearing.