Ben Stiller returns to the director’s chair in this Hollywood spoof starring Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr. Stiller does an admirable job poking fun at the inflated egos and absurd demands of stars, as well as overblown, self-important war films. But the script runs out of ideas about a half hour into it and just coasts the rest of the way.

Matthew McConaughey and Tom Cruise are the best parts in their small supporting roles. Ultimately, it’s not worthy of the talent involved.

Grade: B-

Tropic Thunder is currently available.