Sunday, August 7, 2011

The Change-Up

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1488555/


The grass is always greener on the other side. This cliched statement is put to the test by "Hangover" writers Jon Lucas and Scott Moore in this age old but still entertaining body swap comedy. We are off to a good start with the choice of two great lead actors, Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds that both have a reputation of portraying great comedic and dramatic roles. Although best friends, their characters are almost total opposites. Bateman portrays Dave Lockwood, a lawyer and husband with three children and Reynolds portrays Mitch Planko, an unemployed stoner actor. After a night of drinking, they simultaneously wish to have the other's lives while urinating in a wishing well.

I hate to play off another cliche. However, it is appropriate to be careful what you wish for! Especially when you wake up the next morning to see that it has come true. The two lead characters are now living each other's lives. The story is a great example of how we learn to accept change by stepping outside of ourselves and viewing from somebody else's perspective but also successfully blends in the perfect amount of raunchy humor the aforementioned writers are known for. Thus, the final product is a well balanced serious and funny portrayal of life's obstacles. Grade B+.

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