Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
Canadian Director Shawn Levy is known for his comedic films such as Big Fat Liar, Just Married, Pink Panther (2006), Date Night and the Night at the Museum Franchise. He is faced with the daunting task of directing some of Hollywood’s biggest Heavyweights in his newest feature, This Is Where I Leave You, thankfully the Movie proves to be arguably his funniest Feature to date with hysterical performances from the entire Cast.
The Movie focuses on four siblings, Judd Altman (Jason Bateman), Wendy Altman (Tina Fey), Philip Altman (Adam Driver), Paul Altman (Corey Stoll), their respective significant others and their Mother, Hillary Altman (Jane Fonda) as they all try to cope with their Father’s death. However since all of the Kkids have moved out of state, their Mother is insistent on them all living under the same roof. Now no one has a perfect relationship with their Parents, but after moving out-of-state for an uncollected amount of years and not exactly keeping in touch odds are people are going to pry into the social and marital life. With no one wanting to give up any information on what is happening in their lives it creates a great dynamic between characters and allows this movie with a very grim subject matter to be extremely light hearted and overly amusing.
The chemistry that is shared between Fey and Bateman is truly one of the highlights of theMmovie as any scenes involving the two of them going at it proves to be hysterical. As well as their moments together that allows the story to progress leads to some really funny aftermath that continues the laughs throughout the film. However, the real spotlight is shined on Fonda for her ability to use her physical appearance to her advantage and absolutely horrify some of her Children as she tries to help them cope with some revelations and the loss of their father. Without having ever seen Girls, I can say Driver also delivers a stellar ridiculous performance throughout the Movie that allows it continuously to feel fresh and funny instead of falling into unknown depths and dragging at points.
This Is Where I Leave You is the Comedy we’ve been lacking at the Movies this year. A refreshing look at how to make the absolute best out of a horrific situation and a Film that garners repeat viewings. Warner Bros. Pictures Canada release on Friday, September 19, 2014.
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