Rating: PG-13
Release Year: 2010
Notable Cast: Keir Gilchrist, Emma Roberts, Zach Galifianakis
Stars: 3.25
Review: I really enjoyed this movie. It is in the same genre as Garden State, Juno, and Easy A... actually, it strikes me just now that this might actually be my most favorite genre of movies. I appreciated, in a very Caufield-esque vein, how un-phony were the characters and storyline. Casting was spot-on; all three above-named actors were great in their respective roles. The characters were wonderfully developed. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful construction of the happenings and interactions such that we slowly but surely gained comprehensive insight into the nature of each character. The main character is a straight man in this movie, as it is a existential type of story where the protagonist learns about himself from his unique experiences with rather unique individuals.
Of note, this movie is somewhat juvenile and innocent, much like the other movies of its genre. There is the hint of naivete and simplicity expected in all of Hollywood's productions-- the so-called "happily-ever-after factor." Put simply, the problems presented in the movie are just a little too neatly, and idealistically, resolved, in contrast to the inherent messiness in life. I think, though, that the writers were completely well-meaning. I did not get the feeling that they were at all trivializing the complexity of real-life issues but, rather, offering up hope and optimism. And for this, I applaud them. I am a firm believer that one of the great responsibilities of a movie is to provide escapism, and when a movie also subtly provides hope about real-life stuff, it transcends from enjoyable to moving and inspiring.
Good date movie? For well-established relationships, on a cozy/casual/comfortable date night.
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