Don’t you hate it when the only good parts of a movie have been shown in the preview? Man of the House is the latest film to commit this cinematic sin. After viewing the preview, we know that Tommy Lee Jones plays a Texas Ranger who moves in with a group of cheerleaders to protect them and that Cedric the Entertainer performs his trademark dance moves. The mere thought of Tommy Lee Jones and Cedric the Entertainer together in an action comedy was enough to pique my curiosity. Throw in a few cheerleading routines and I’m hooked completely. Sadly, the movie gave me little else to cheer about.

Jeers not cheers for the stereotypical depiction of cheerleaders here -- a feisty Latina (Paula Garcés), a dumb blonde (Kelli Garner), a street-smart Italian (Vanessa Ferlito), a rhythmic African-American (Christina Milian), a pushy WASP (Monica Keena). Despite being in danger because of witnessing a murder, they seem more concerned about showing off their gorgeous bodies by wearing skimpy clothing, and they refuse to cover up until Jones’ character installs a special air conditioning system. Hints of deeper character development emerge only when one girl (Garner) develops a crush on Jones and another (Ferlito) demonstrates hidden intellectual potential. But, unfortunately, these Man of the House cheerleaders bear no resemblance to my favorite Bring It On pepsters.  

I’m also disappointed that scenes between Jones (Men in Black 2) and Cedric the Entertainer (Serving Sara) are few and far between. That’s too bad, because it’s fun to watch them play off each other -- Jones with his sarcastic, dry delivery and Cedric with his amusing effervescence. I wish Cedric, who portrays an ex-con turned minister, and his gospel choir received more camera time in Man of the House. Whenever they appear, things liven up considerably.    

Another cast member deserving additional screen time is Anne Archer (Clear and Present Danger). Her sensitive portrayal of Jones’ love interest, an English Literature professor, rings true -- and it’s a treat to see this lovely lady back on the big screen. She and Jones make an appealing couple, one I’d like to see again, but in a mature romantic comedy.

Directed by Stephen Herek (Rock Star) from a screenplay and story by five (!!!) writers, Man of the House fails to deliver much exciting action or laugh-out-loud comedy. Although both Tommy Lee Jones and Cedric the Entertainer have earned considerable credit with me because of past performances, I hope they choose their projects more wisely in the future. 

(Released by Columbia Pictures and rated “PG-13” for violence, sexual content, crude humor and a drug reference.)