I think a big part of the problem is that the romantic comedy subgenre is rather stagnant. Over the years a formulas has emerged and this type of film has become so driven by formula that it has become increasingly difficult to craft a romantic comedy that feels fresh and new. So, what it boils down to is the chemistry between the leads and the overall quality of writing. This year has already had examples at both ends of the spectrums. At one end of the spectrum you get the likes of Made of Honor and Over Her Dead Body, both of which have decent conecepts but fail in the final execution. At the other end of the spectrum are films like 27 Dresses, which works the formula well and has a very likable lead, and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, a film that fires on all cylinders twisting the formula, yet never leaving the general area, these two films are good examples of writing and acting that make the genre work. As for What Happens in Vegas? Well, the leads are likable enough, so that leaves the problems in execution at the feet of the writers and director.
Through a contrived "meet-cute" our couple have a drunken night of partying that culminates in the exchanging of vows, one pull of a one-armed bandit later and the two are at each other's throats over the $3 million prize. Unable to come to an agreement they wind up in front of a judge (Dennis Miller), who sentences them to six months of marriage before making a decision. Can you guess what comes next?
In the last third, the writing allows the characters some more genuine moments, but by now it is too little too late. After over sixty-minutes of bickering and goofy antics, the tonal shift into something more closely resembling reality is jarring and does not mesh with what had already come to pass. All this while Lake Bell and Rob Corddry (Tipper and Hater, respectively) regularly steal scenes from the leads.
This is a movie that relies too heavily on the superficial. Diaz and Kutcher are likable enough and seem comfortable within the genre, but some of their choices are questionable. Of course, some of their choices are likely due to the director. The best example of goofy choices would be when (not a spoiler, this is in the trailer) Kutcher reveals the removed toilet seat to the camera. Way to break the fourth wall! For whose benefit is he doing the reveal? That is the most unforgivable of choices; others are reactions and such that just don't work, especially when the tone shifts in the last third.
Bottomline. This movie is just a bit too loud and obnoxious to truly enjoy. Yes, there were a couple of chuckles to be had, but not nearly enough to recommend. If you feel you must see this, wait for DVD and rent it.
Not Recommended.
3 comments:
I gotta say, you were spot on in your review, I agree. Gotta catch up. hit me up on aim - tufguy508
i thought there was really good chemistry between Diaz and Kutcher in What Happens in Vegas, though at first they seemed to act like brother and sister; they even look alike...
I would like to know how you didn't fine this movie funny. This movie deserved at least 4 stars.
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