Funny People

“Don't cry, you're making a scene. Everyone will think I broke up with you.”

Although undoubtedly more mature, Sandler still isn’t a high quality master

Funny People is yet another film from Judd Apatow. He’s been on a role these days, so why stop? Apatow’s protégé Seth Rogan takes the lead role as aspiring comedian Ira Wright, who begins writing jokes and working as the personal assistant to the ailing legendary George Simmons, played by Adam Sandler.

I have not come to expect great things from Sandler. Granted, we all love to watch and laugh at Billy Madison, but, truly, Sandler has not left any sort of significant impact on American film. Although undoubtedly more mature in this film, he still doesn’t strike the high quality note that he seems to be attempting.

The film had its funny moments, and it keeps viewers entertained for the expected amount of time for a film like this. However, the film was at least an hour too long, and that extra hour of plot exposition gives us no greater appreciation for the characters or the real point of the film. I believe Apatow was trying to make a more mature film. And, although he succeeded at this, it does not come remotely near to the quality of either The 40 Year Old Virgin or Knocked Up.

Although led by a decent cast, the best in show, by far, was Leslie Mann, who played Laura, George Simmons’ former love interest. Although it took quite some time to reach a true appreciation for her character, Mann’s performance was believable and heartfelt. I would not be surprised to hear her name buzzing during awards season.

The film wasn’t as bad as I seem to be making it out to be, but it certainly wasn’t as good as most of us had hoped. I give it a C+.