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I Love You, Man
(2009)
While it may not be an instant classic like 40-Year-Old Virgin or
Knocked-Up, I Love You, Man is still a worthwhile exploration of male
comradery otherwise known as “bromance.” Jason Segel and Paul Rudd,
both of Apatow fame, have great onscreen chemistry, and it’s
refreshing to see a buddy comedy that doesn’t rely on being overly
vulgar and effectively explores the differences between male and
female friendship.
Real Estate agent Peter Klaven is a guy that goes through life as a
suppressed pushover. While the audience can see that he has goals and
makes an effort, it’s easy to see that he’s not getting anywhere
professionally, allowing more charismatic co-workers, like the flashy
and fake baked Tevin (Rob Huebel) to excel. He’s also deemed a
“girlfriend” guy, dedicated to the women in his life, and forsaking
his friendships with men. Even his own father (J.K. Simmons) is closer
with Peter’s gay younger brother, Robbie (Andy Samberg). Once Peter
and his girlfriend, Zooey (Rashida Jones), become engaged, Peter
realizes how empty his wedding party will look compared to hers. One
night he overhears the chatter of Zooey and her friends on girl’s
night, making fun of his lack of friends, and decides to make a
change. After a number of failed “man dates”, Peter meets the witty
and strange Sydney Fife (Segel) at an open house for Lou Ferrigno. As
their friendship develops Peter starts to open up and realize his
potential, personally and professionally, perhaps at the expense his
relationship with Zooey. As Peter’s identity crisis continues, he
learns more about what it means to be both friend and fiancé.
The exchanges on screen between Rudd and Segel really make the movie.
From “slappin’ the base”, to failed nickname attempts, Peter and
Sydney are an amusing bromance in the making. In essence, they are
foil characters, and allow for believable growth. Anyone in the
audience might be thinking “I know those guys”. Sydney’s laid back,
yet immature nature, allows Peter to explore what he’s been missing: a
best friend and guy time. Sydney’s willingness to listen to Peter and
mentor him, also builds Peter’s confidence in his relationship and
job. Peter’s more responsible behavior shows Sydney the life of a
dedicated man, rather then a playboy. Rudd makes for a good leading
man, perhaps taking on a more Segel-esque role. Segel, along with his
ridiculous wardrobe and pooch companion Anwar Sadat is extremely
memorable.
The supporting cast also shines in the film. Jaime Presley as Zooey’s
best friend Denise, and her grumpy husband Barry (Jon Favreau) provide
a great contrast to Peter and Zooey (and perhaps a lesson too).
Samberg is surprisingly tame, but effective as Peter’s brother. Thomas
Lennon as Doug who went on a “man date” with Peter, and mistook it for
an actual date, is a great running gag. And of course Rashida Jones is
a lovely and welcome addition to the cast as Peter’s fiancé, Zooey.
While the script is clever and full of gags and great one-liners, I
think it really explores male companionship well. It presents the
audience with familiar male characters and social activities, like
drinking games, poker nights, and garage band antics. It also looks at
the differences between male and female relationships and “bromace”
vs. “romance”, without seeming shallow or blaming problems on one
particular gender (like so many romantic comedies do). It makes male
bonding look more sensitive, and dismisses the frat boy approach. It’s
not dramatic social commentary, but it certainly adds to the
conversation.
I Love You, Man isn’t afraid to explore relationships. It isn’t
afraid to laugh at them either. It may be a movie, but so much of it
feels familiar, which makes it charming and watchable for men or
women. So grab your mate or best buddy and go to the theater for this
bromantic comedy.
-Conor Aylsworth
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All contents ©
2004-2009 Thoughtsonfilm.com |
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Director:
John Hamburg
Writer: John Hamburg, Larry Levin
Starring: Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones, Jaime Pressly, Jon Favreau, Jane Curtin, J.K. Simmons, Andy Samberg
Distributor: Dreamworks SKG
Runtime: 105
min
Rating: R
Release Date: March 20, 2009
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