Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Dinner for Schmucks (2010)



"Takes one to know one."

- Dinner for Schmucks


When I first saw the trailer for this film, I thought it was a bit silly. Actually, too silly. To be honest, it didn't really look like my kind of movie - slapstick comedy is not really my kind of comedy.

Though, this film was highly recommended to me by many. I was told this movie was silly but really funny. So, I decided to take this advice since I was in the mood for comedy - I'm glad I did.

From the very beginning of the movie, there were so many funny and entertaining moments. I thought the opening scene was a bit weird but very comical. I have to admit, I was laughing even before the dialogue in the movie had started.

(Note: For those who saw the film, you'll know what I'm talking about. It was very interesting how the movie began - the opening scene was very unique in its own way. It tied in with the story very nicely).

Basically, the story is very simple. It's about your average typical guy, Tim Conrad, (played by Paul Rudd) who is trying to climb the corporate ladder. And, this involves constantly trying to impress his boss and his higher ups with new ideas.

One day, one of his ideas sparks an interest with his boss. And, this idea alone gave him an invitation to a special dinner party - a dinner party where you are required to invite a "schmuck" or someone to make fun of.

In a way, you could call it a sort of initiation. If Barry were to attend the dinner party and pass the initiation, then he would be granted the promotion he has been waiting for all these years.

What I thought was great about this film (apart from the comedy) was the way the film progressed - it set the stage for the dinner party which happened near the end of the movie.

From the point leading up to the dinner party, we learn more about the different characters in the movie and how they come into play. It also introduces us to Barry Speck, (played by Steve Carrell) who becomes the "schmuck" Tim invites to the dinner party as part of his intitation.

Along the way, we also meet Thurman Murch (played by Zach Galifianakis), who plays Barry's nemesis and co-worker. I really enjoyed his performance and the rivalness between him and Barry - especially during the ultimate showdown at the dinner party. (Ever since this movie, he has played this type of weird and zany character - I do somewhat enjoy watching his silly antics on the big screen).

(Note: For those who have seen the movie, it was so funny how they presented two different types of "powers" possessed at the dinner party. I don't want to ruin it for those have not seen the film, but let's just say it was definitely a mind trip).

Overall, I really enjoyed this film. I was surprised how much I enjoyed it - it was silly but funny at the same time. I was entertained throughout the movie. And, I would say it was definitely worth it.

If you're in the mood for a comedy type of movie, I do recommend this one.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!



VIdeo Link

5 comments:

Sadako said...

Looks kind of fun! And I heard the original French one it's based on is good, too...

teddy crescendo said...

Steve Carell is a load of old rubbish.

Candice Frederick said...

i like your review, but the trailer just loks so goofy. i really like paul rudd's humor, but i don't really feel the same about steve carrell's.

Film Gurl said...

(Sadako) Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the review. I had no idea it was based on a French version, I may have to check that out - thanks for sharing!

(Teddy) I guess his style is different than others - some like it and some do not. Appreciate you sharing your opinion!

(Candice) Thanks, glad you liked the review! I think Steve Carrell's humor can be be a bit slapstick in nature at times - it's kind of comparable to Jim Carrey. Though, I do enjoy seeing Carrell's comedy from time to time. Thanks for stopping by!

teddy crescendo said...

Thanks Film Gurl you gorgeous little darlin`.