Better Call Saul Actor’s New Action-Comedy Channels Hot Fuzz Vibes in Minnesota, and Fans Are Loving It

Bob Odenkirk is back in the spotlight with his new film, Normal, and fans have started to notice some striking resemblances to a beloved British classic from the 2000s.

In Normal, Odenkirk takes on the role of Ulysses, a temporary sheriff who stumbles upon a sinister conspiracy lurking beneath the surface of a small Minnesota town following a violent bank heist. The film’s trailer has sparked discussions online, with many drawing parallels to Edgar Wright’s action-comedy, Hot Fuzz. This isn’t necessarily a negative comparison.

The teaser introduces us to Normal with a cheerful voiceover: “Welcome to Normal, Minnesota, a charming, unassuming town where time moves slow and a friendly face is always just around the corner. You’ll never be far from our local mayor, dedicated deputy sheriff, a friendly mailman, cheerful store owners, cozy eateries. Oh, and our town moose.”

However, as the trailer hints, things aren’t as idyllic as they seem. “Life in Normal is quiet, peaceful, predictable. Until it isn’t.” This is followed by scenes of gunfire, shattered glass, and a knife fight.

“Why are they shooting at you?” a woman inquires. “I’m at a loss,” Ulysses responds, leading to more intense visuals of explosions and a shocking eye-stabbing moment.

One Twitter user expressed excitement, saying, “I’m so happy Bob Odenkirk is inexplicably becoming an action star but also this is just Hot Fuzz.” Another chimed in, “Hot Fuzz but he finds out in act one is a great premise.” A third added, “Yeah, and A Bug’s Life is just Seven Samurai; if the movie tells the story with a new perspective or direction, it’s fine, to be honest.”

Directed by Ben Wheatley, Normal features a script by Derek Kolstad, known for his work on the John Wick series and the Odenkirk-led film Nobody. The supporting cast includes Henry Winkler and Lena Headey.

Mark your calendars for April 17, 2026, when Normal hits theaters. In the meantime, keep an eye on the upcoming movie release schedule for next year.