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The Break Up |
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By : Suzanne Philips |
Movie Reviews List | |
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Peyton Reed (Bring it On) Written by Jeremy Garelick and Jay Lavender Starring Vince Vaughn, Jennifer Aniston, Vincent D'Onofrio, Jon Favreau, Jason Bateman, Joey Lauren Adams, Cole Hauser, Ann-Margret, Judy Davis, Ivan Sergei Rated PG-13 Running Time 1 hour 45 min THE BREAK UP is the story of Gary (Vince Vaughn) and Brooke (Jennifer Aniston) and how they met, fall in love, and the fallout when they break up. I think they made a mistake marketing this film as a typical Vince Vaughn-Old School type comedy. It is actually a very poignant glimpse into a relationship with all of the emotions that go with this - sadness, joy, love, humour, anger..... The writers really hit the nail on the head when writing this script. Anyone who has ever been in a long-term relationship will so be able to relate to the fights over such things as doing the dishes, not bringing home the correct items from the market, not understanding your partners needs. I think everyone in the theatre, both male and female, could empathize with the trials of this couple. The direction is good, I like the fact that Peyton Reed let the story tell itself and did not try to add a lot of special effects shots, but rather makes the viewer feel as though they are a fly on the wall. The dialogue is well delivered, the pacing on dialogue is great. Vince Vaughn is really good as Gary, a fun loving guy who doesn't feel that he needs to change or bend to anyone's wants or desires but his own. Vaughn does a nice job switching from the comedy to the drama easily and it never feels forced. Jennifer Aniston is also good as Brooke, a woman who gives everything she has to make Gary feel comfortable in the relationship. As everyone on the planet knows, Aniston has had a turbulent personal life for the last few years and I think this helps her performance. My heart certainly went out to her in certain scenes when she has tried everything to save the relationship. Been there, done that. What I loved most about this film is that all of the supporting roles were cast with outstanding actors and it was truly a joy to watch each scene knowing that something great was coming. Vincent D'Onofrio was outstanding as Dennis, Gary's quirky brother and had me rolling during his scenes. Jason Bateman was also great in his role as a friend of the couple who is also a somewhat anal retentive realtor. Everyone is really so wonderful that you want to avoid having to go to the restroom during this film! A very touching, witty, highly believable Romantic Drama-dy. The comedy is there if you want to laugh and the "chick flick" aspect is also well represented. A good date film! |
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