We follow Graeme (Simon Pegg) and Clive (Nick Frost) who are at SDCC, we find out these two british geeks have been dreaming of this since they were children. They also plan on touring the most popular UFO sites in America, however they never expected to meet real alien. Which is exactly what happens when then meet Paul (voiced by Seth Rogen). They decide to help Paul get home by taking him to a landing site. But they are followed by Agent Zoil (Jason Bateman), who is given orders by The Big Guy played by Sigourney Weaver. As well as two rookie agents, played by Bill Hader and Joe Lo Truglio. Along their journey they unintentionally kidnap the extremely religious daughter of RV park owner Ruth Buggs (Kristen Wiig).
There are a few other characters played by Blythe Danner, Jane Lynch, and Jeffrey Tambor. Along with a totally awesome voice cameo I wont' spoil for you,
Paul begins with a crash in the 60's, like other alien movies. Which is just the first ode to the science fiction films before it. It also sets the tone of the humor for the film. Then it quickly takes us back to the present, or at least present July, since we start out at San Diego's Comic-Con. Which looks just like the real thing, but was apparently a recreation of SDCC as they revealed at a panel for the film at last years SDCC. We are introduced to a few quirky characters who pop only a few times throughout the film. I was hoping to be used a little more. There are tons of science fiction references from E.T. to Aliens, which of course I loved as a huge science fiction fan.
Paul starts out with the perfect tone, which quickly establishes the characters. It is a highly entertaining movie made for all us science fiction nerds, and has a great combination of comedy and heart. However it does miss the well put together combination of comedy, homage and spoof that Hot Fuzz, and Shaun of the Dead have. Which is a shame, because as much as I loved this film, it still could have better. Still it is a throughly enjoyable film I would recommend to my friends, and gladly pay to see.