MOVIE - SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE - Review Rating $$$$$ $$$ (OUT OF 10)
STARRING - Jack Nicholson (Harry Sanborn), Diane Keaton (Erica Barry), Amanda Peet (Marin Barry), Keanu Reeves (Julian Mercer), Frances McDormand (Aunt Zoe) & Jon Favreau (Leo).
DIRECTOR/WRITER - Nancy Meyers (What Women Want & 1998's The Parent Trap)
Most of the fun associated with Something's Gotta Give arises from the uncanny similarity between Jack Nicholson in real life and his character in the movie, Harry Sanborn. In most of the early scenes, at least, you'll find yourself laughing on two different levels: 1) the scene is actually funny and 2) Jack has probably found himself in similar situations in real life.
Something's Gotta Gives remains funny up to the point that Sanborn seeks redemption. It's at this point that all the efforts exerted by the entire cast and the hilarious screenplay goes to waste. The film would have been much better, and more honest, if its characters had been allowed to leave well enough alone.
If happy Hollywood endings weren't the order of the day then Erica Barry (Keaton) would have achieved closure through the opening of her play and moved on having been reminded that you can be strong and passionate simultaneously. Conversely, Sanborn's self-reflection should have led to a new found level of commitment with someone else. It is very rare that those who respond to personal pain with personal growth can implement these changes with the one they hurt.
An added benefit to this approach is that it would have resulted in a shorter and more consistently funny movie. The enjoyment of this otherwise excellent film decreases in direct proportion to the increase in mushiness in the final half hour.
That being said, Something's Gotta Give is a hoot for the most part, and a must see comedy for anyone over 30.
Running time - 124 minutes
Check out my TOP 10 MOVIES OF 2003 & WORST MOVIES OF 2003 lists.
Alternative Reviews:
Roger Ebert's Review
Peter Traver's / Rolling Stone Review
Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
Something's Gotta Give Official Web Site
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2005
David Schwartz.
Last update:
2/28/05; 1:48:30 AM.
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