Review of I Love You, Man

Not a GREAT film by anymeans, and yet one of the most satisfying comedies of the year. Whether or not the actors or the comedy fits your taste, I think what many fans of this movie like myself truly appreciate is the fact that there isn't a single mean-spirited thing about it. Few recent comedies endear themselves to audiences as much a I Love You, Man does, in part because it contains none of the cynicism with which comedy directors often treat their subject, audience, or both. Instead, this movie compels us to laugh at and with the characters for their humanity. And it's the instantly recognizeable humantiy of the characters that makes the humor so rewarding. Insecurities can often be painful and even immobilizing. They are real things that we all cary around with us. But when confronted thoughtfully and kindly they can be softened, made manageable, even celebrated. We become able to look at our hang ups, our self-consciousness, and respond with a healthy "YES!". And that's what this film does as well as any.