‘Balls Up’ Movie Review: A Raunchy Comedy with Wahlberg & Hauser – Is It Worth Watching?
A star-studded cast has come together for “Balls Up,” a new, decidedly raunchy comedy now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Directed by Peter Farrelly, known for his work with his brother in comedies like “Dumb and Dumber” and “Kingpin,” the film dives headfirst into the world of professional soccer – or international football, as it’s known globally – during the high-stakes atmosphere of the World Cup. The movie features Mark Wahlberg and Paul Walter Hauser delivering performances that promise plenty of comedic energy.
What’s ‘Balls Up’ About?
Amazon describes “Balls Up” as an “over-the-top comedy,” and the synopsis certainly suggests as much. The story follows marketing executives Brad (Mark Wahlberg) and Elijah (Paul Walter Hauser) as they boldly pitch a full-coverage condom sponsorship for the World Cup. Their celebratory antics in Brazil quickly spiral into a global scandal, forcing them to evade angry fans, criminals, and powerful officials in a desperate attempt to save their careers and make it home alive.
The Creative Team Behind the Chaos
Adding to the film’s pedigree, the script was penned by Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, the writing duo behind the hilarious “Deadpool” movies. Their other credits include the “Zombieland” franchise, Michael Bay’s “6 Underground,” and the upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine,” proving their knack for comedic storytelling. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Benjamin Bratt (“Andor”), Daniela Melchior (“Anaconda”), Molly Shannon (“Divorce”), Sacha Baron Cohen (“Borat”), and Eric André (“The Eric Andre Show”).
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Despite the impressive talent involved, critical reception for “Balls Up” has been…mixed, to say the least. As of this writing, Rotten Tomatoes shows only one positive review out of five. Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com gave the film a single star, calling it “as tedious as it sounds,” and criticizing its portrayal of Brazil. Reviews on Letterboxd are slightly more forgiving, with some describing it as “Stupid,” while others acknowledge “funny moments” if you “embrace it for what it is.”
Wahlberg & Hauser: An Unlikely, Yet Promising Duo
The pairing of Mark Wahlberg and Paul Walter Hauser is certainly an interesting one. Wahlberg has proven his comedic timing in films like “The Other Guys” with Will Ferrell, as well as “Daddy’s Home” and “Ted.” Hauser, meanwhile, continues to showcase his comedic chops, most recently in 2025’s “The Naked Gun.” Their contrasting styles could potentially create some genuinely funny moments.
Farrelly’s Return to Raunchy Comedy
Peter Farrelly, who surprisingly won a Best Picture Oscar for “Green Book,” returns to his roots with “Balls Up.” His recent film, “Ricky Stanicky,” also on Prime Video, cemented John Cena as a comedic force. Amazon seems keen on continuing its partnership with Farrelly, and this film represents a clear return to the director’s signature style.
Is ‘Balls Up’ Worth Streaming?
“Balls Up” is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. If you’re a fan of raunchy comedies and enjoy the work of Mark Wahlberg, Paul Walter Hauser, or Peter Farrelly, it might be worth a watch – but be prepared for potentially uneven results. Don’t expect a cinematic masterpiece, but if you’re looking for a lighthearted, albeit potentially crude, laugh, “Balls Up” might just scratch that itch.
