(Three stars)

WHEN faced with losing his beloved gym because of huge debts and no semblance of business sense, Peter LaFleur (Vince Vaughn), sets out on a mission to save his livelihood.

He and his motley band of misfit friends decide to enter an international dodgeball championship with a top prize of $50,000 - just enough to pay off the gym's debts.

However, LaFleur's arch enemy, egomaniac fitness guru White Goodman (Ben Stiller), is also determined to win the competition to prevent LaFleur from getting the cash prize and securing the future of his gym.

Goodman wants to buy his rival out to expand his own gym empire and is prepared to do anything to achieve his goal.

Despite initial fears that this film would actually be a poor attempt at comedy, I actually found myself laughing out loud on numerous occasions.

The film is completely lacking in depth or emotion but it is great fun and what's more, the actors themselves seem to be having a ball in their roles.

The DVD also features plenty of funny special features which will have the viewer laughing long after the final whistle has been blown on the film.

HC