Film Bites

Well blended humor(like, laughing in your seat funny) and romance is hard to come by. There are the classics, like Pretty Woman and You’ve Got Mail, but it is refreshing to see the ‘romantic comedy’ genre still has the goods. Dan In Real Life is about Dan Burns(Carell) and his awkward reentry into the dating scene 4 years after his wife died. Dan, the model father, is left to raise his three daughters; Lilly(Lawston), Cara(Robertson) and Jane(Pill) alone. While his daughters are off at school, Dan’s job is a non-fiction writer and help columnist on the verge of syndication. During the first days of a family reunion in Rhode Island, Dan meets Marie(Binoche) and the two immediately hit it off. Little does Dan know that Marie is in town briefly with her boyfriend, Mitch(Cook), to meet his family. Nerves are tensed when Dan and Marie realize they are closer than they first thought, when Mitch, Dan’s brother, introduces his new girlfriend to the family.

One of the best aspects of Dan In Real Life is the convincing interaction between all members of the family. Dan and his daughters have an obviously loving relationship speckled with a little father-daughter misunderstanding. At times, the family-at-large seems a little too cliche; a boys vs. girls crossword competition and talent show to boot. All in all, the interaction allows for a sly comment or silly action that will leave you laughing. This role is a good extension of Carell’s work that differs from some of his previous
funny yet slightly dumb parts.

The story was rather predictable in it’s outcome. Although, that may be expected, considering there are only so many variations on the forbidden-love tale. In the end, the film is refreshing and enjoyable. Definitely worth a watch.