I endured this modest, sometimes vulgar and often insulting family flick for one reason only: an unusual chance to watch the charming, likable and woefully underrated Tom Hanks clone, Tom Everett Scott, in a rare leading role. Big mistake.

Actions and emotions turn on a dime, chuckles are few and it's clear this predictable film, directed by John Asher, doesn't quite realize how retrograde and often offensive it is - which makes it all even worse.

The single achievement of "I Hate Kids," a new comedy directed by John Asher, is that it is simultaneously tepid and offensive.

It's an uneven film, but there are some funny turns.