Larry Crowne

A good solid Romantic Comedy after quite a while is what one would feel after watching Larry Crowne – released last weekend. Not only does Larry Crowne give us an opportunity to watch 2 of the best actors of our time together on screen once again (Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts share screen space after Charlie Wilson’s War) but also treats us to some really acidic and extremely enjoyable humour with just that little bit of romance thrown in as garnish. Tom Hanks takes his position behind the camera for the 2nd time (the first time was with “That Thing you Do” – my question on twitter answered with a bit of research). The 15 year hiatus doesn’t seem to have done much for him from a perspective of direction that it. He was as good or as bad with Larry Crowne as he was with That Thing You Do. Now I am sure all of us have immense respect to Tom Hanks as a director but his presence behind the camera may not have as much of a fan following. He does make the cut comfortably though as in his work is quite decent but nowhere close to people who direct movies for a living. Unlike a Clint Eastwood who is able to translate his experiences in front of the camera to behind it as well – a very rare breed indeed.

Despite all of this, the consummate ease with which Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts essay their characters in Larry Crowne would have been an absolute joy for the tweenagers who shared screen space with them in the movie. Effortless is the word that comes to mind when one looks at their performances and what is commendable is the way they carry the support cast with them. Gugu Mbatha-Raw – an amazing tongue twister of a name – who plays the character of Talia is fluent and seems unfazed in the face of the two behemoths of Hollywood. Wilmer Valderrama (remember Fez from That 70s Show) seems to have come of age and left slapstick behind him (although I am a fan of That 70s). The script is funny for certain and the sarcastic humour helps a lot. When Larry is being inducted to the Scooter Group he is asked to raise his right hand and say something patriotic. He does exactly that – raises his right hand and says, “We will be back after these short messages” – hilarious I say!!!!

Larry Crowne could have done with some more pace but the dialogues and the acting more than make up for the speed of the movie. One has to be patient to keep looking out for the moments that make it a fun movie to watch. I cannot say that it would appeal to all generations alike. But if u give it a chance then you will come out quite pleased about the way you have spent a little over 90 minutes. And yes, interesting bit of trivia. The movie has been written by Tom Hanks and one Nia Vardalos (remember My Big Fat Greek Wedding). That would probably explain where the humour came from. A lovely way to spend your Sunday afternoon with that really special someone. 6 on 10 is definitely on. Maybe more if u are a real sucker for RomComs.

Watch the trailer at http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1973459993/