Semi-Pro
The brief
Semi-Pro feels like Will Ferrell on autopilot, playing his usual man-child character but in 1970s basketball shorts instead of an ice rink or news desk. The ABA setting has potential for weird sports comedy gold, but the jokes land with all the grace of a missed free throw, and even Woody Harrelson and André 3000 can't inject much energy into the sluggish pacing. Ferrell's Jackie Moon is more annoying than endearing, lacking the sweet spot that made Anchorman and Talladega Nights work. If you're desperate for more Will Ferrell and have already exhausted his better sports comedies, this might scratch that itch, but newcomers should start literally anywhere else in his filmography.
The verdict
If you're a die-hard Will Ferrell completist who can find laughs in even his most formulaic man-child antics, this 1970s ABA basketball setting offers just enough sports comedy moments to keep you entertained. If you're new to Ferrell or expect the sharp writing of Anchorman, skip this sluggish misfire and watch literally any of his better sports comedies instead.
Watch with
- 👥 Comedy fans looking for mindless laughs
- ⚠️ Skip if you want smart or sophisticated humor
Heads up
- Crude sexual humor and innuendo (frequent)
- Strong language throughout (frequent)
- Drug and alcohol use (moderate)
Credits
- Director
- Kent Alterman
- Cast
- Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson, André 3000, Maura Tierney, Andy Daly, Will Arnett, Andy Richter
Official synopsis
Jackie Moon is the owner, promoter, coach, and star player of the Flint Michigan Tropics of the American Basketball
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Scary Movie (2026)
Both spoofs share absurd comedy and sports culture references.
