| Along Came Polly (2004) |
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| Written by Daniel Cann | |
| Sunday, 03 August 2008 | |
 Normally ultra cautious insurance adjuster Reuben (Ben Stiller) is finally forced to take risks in his life when he falls for care – free and spontaneous kook, Polly (Jennifer Anniston). When his honeymoon in Hawaii goes disastrously wrong culminating in his bride Lisa being stolen by smooth – talking scuba diving instructor Fred, Reuben returns to the city and his safe world of insurance trying to pick up the pieces.He encounters his old school friend Polly, he feels his spirits lifted and engages in an ‘odd couple’ ‘opposites attracts’ type of relationship. There are amusing scenes where the loose, relaxed carefree Polly attempts to teach the stiff and socially awkward Reuben to salsa dance as well as a scene where the neurotic Reuben explains why he does not eat peanuts from a bar (which will probably put viewers off as well). It all probably sounded good on paper and the film opens hopefully but somehow it never quite fulfils its potential. There are moments of mirth and some good ideas at work here, but too many gags miss the mark particularly a gross – out moment at an art gallery involving Reuben’s self - centred has - been actor friend Sandy played here by the usually excellent Philip Seymour – Hoffman. This had plenty of potential but stars like Seymour – Hoffman are in sadly underwritten parts and are unable to display their usual talent. Apart from a few funny self pitying deluded moments Sandy is generally reduced to merely an awkward side – kick, mugging and gurning his way in a un - amusing manner. High points include a scene involving a blind ferret as well as a basketball game that will make every viewer wince. Bryan Brown is enjoyable in a supporting role as an Aussie billionaire that unlike Reuben likes to live life on the edge pursuing a passion for extreme sports. The film takes an interesting turn when Reuben’s philandering wife returns and he has to make a choice: Try to make his marriage work or take a risk with Polly? A lot of people will recognise and sympathise with broken – hearted Reuben’s dilemma. He is still in the grip of his wife Lisa and confused and uncertain but now he knows what she is capable of. On the other hand is he prepared to sacrifice his marriage for a carefree woman who does not want to settle down just yet and is not ready for commitment? There are other subplots but they merely distract from the main narrative. The final verdict then is it’s a harmless enough date movie but there is something definitely lacking here. It does have its moments but there are too few laugh out loud moments for what is supposed to be a comedy. VIEW MOVIE TRAILER BELOW |
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