Saw
Funny People a couple days ago. Completely different than what I expected, actually. The trailer made it look like a thoughtful comedy about a comedian with cancer. Turned out to be a thoughtful drama about a comedian with cancer.
I've not worked with enough people to really say I
know the type of person who is purposefully self-destructive as a result of selfishness. I've encountered the sentiment occasionally (in myself and others at times), and it's really frustrating to deal with. But that's a pretty normal life pattern for many folks. They are unhappy and dissatisfied with themselves and everything about their lives, yet they lack the power to effect any real change. They openly use people around them for their own purposes, manipulating to get what they want and then throwing friendships away when they no longer provide the necessary perks.
Adam Sandler nails that personality type in
Funny People. Seth Rogan is the moral, conscientious, lovable awkward friend who tries to keep Sandler's character from imploding. Fascinating story of an odd yet all-too-realistic friendship between two men. Well, it's not really a friendship ... more of a constant irritation with a relatively happy ending. And the supporting characters add a lot of life to the film.
As for the film, I'm not sure whether I actually recommend it or not. Cons: It's slow-paced and longer than necessary; very crass; and a little heavy. But the acting is great, and it's a film that prompts a lot of reflections on dealing with people who, at their core, are nothing but selfish. The plot isn't predictable either -- which I appreciate.
So... not recommending. But have been thinking a lot since seeing
Funny People
Comments (2)
i understand what you mean about Snandlers character, and i can even agree that there was some good acting in it, but the movie was far to long and way to crass for me to see past anything else, it was one of the few times i was hoping the movie would end so i could go home.
they could have left out just about all the off color jokes and the movie if anything would have benifited from it. and in hind sight, it was a horrible choice of a movie to go see with two girls i hardly knew. =D
im glad you liked it thou, and now that you say that i can, kinda see some redeeming qualities about, kinda.
@rynomatic - I agree with your evaluation entirely. I'm not sure I "liked" it either, to be honest. Or that I could recommend it. But I can see value in the story as it was told.
GI Joe was a lot more fun.