RECENTLY VIEWED: HUBIE HALLOWEEN

In the heart of Salem, Massachusetts—where Halloween spirit runs as deep as the town’s spooky legends—lives Hubie Dubois, a man-child with a thermos full of gadgets and a heart full of good intentions. Played by Adam Sandler in one of his most eccentric roles to date, Hubie is the self-appointed guardian of Halloween, though the townspeople treat him more like a punchline than a protector.

Hubie Halloween is a film that doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is: a silly, slapstick comedy wrapped in orange and black. Directed by Steven Brill, the movie leans into the absurd with gusto. Sandler’s Hubie speaks in a mumbly voice reminiscent of his earlier characters, and the plot—if you can call it that—follows a series of strange disappearances on Halloween night that only Hubie seems to take seriously.

The film is packed with familiar faces from the Happy Madison universe. Kevin James plays a mullet-wearing cop, Julie Bowen is the sweet love interest who inexplicably adores Hubie, and Steve Buscemi and Rob Schneider bring their usual offbeat energy. There’s even a cameo from Shaquille O’Neal that’s as bizarre as it is hilarious.

What Hubie Halloween lacks in narrative depth, it makes up for in festive charm. The town is decked out in Halloween decor, the costumes are colorful and creative, and the soundtrack is filled with spooky-season staples. It’s a movie that feels like a Halloween party—chaotic, loud, and not particularly meaningful, but fun if you’re in the right mood.

That said, the humor is hit-or-miss. Much of it relies on juvenile gags—fart jokes, food fights, and people screaming in exaggerated terror. If you’re not a fan of Sandler’s brand of comedy, this movie won’t change your mind. But beneath the silliness, there’s a surprisingly sweet message about kindness, bullying, and the importance of being true to yourself, even when the world laughs at you.

Hubie Halloween isn’t a great film, but it’s not trying to be. It’s a seasonal treat—like candy corn or a plastic pumpkin full of cheap chocolate. You might not crave it year-round, but when October rolls around, it hits the spot...

MY RATING: 5 out of 10