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Forgetting Sarah Marshall: Advanced Screening Preview
Sean Hilgeman
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It can be devastating breaking up with a loved one after so many years spent with them, which is the premise behind “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.” Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) is a musician living in the shadow of his famous girlfriend Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell). When she dumps him for British rock star Aldous (Russel Brand), he goes through a period of grief-stricken depression before deciding to take a trip to Hawaii to try and forget her. Unfortunately, the hotel he checks in at is the same one Sarah and Aldous are staying, and matters are further complicated when he starts falling in love hotel employee Rachel (Mila Kunis).
Jason Segal also wrote the script, and for the most part he does a good job. There are many humorous situations and jokes spread throughout the movie, alongside scenes of romance that feel genuine. The actors come off as believable yet unique characters, but perhaps the most refreshing part of this movie was its originality. Where the movie could’ve easily gone the route of typical cliché outcomes it goes in a different direction, bringing something new to the genre.
However, there are some disappointments. Side plots such as a newlywed couple’s sexual troubles feel tacked-on and add little to the movie, and blatant character stereotypes detract from the overall experience; yes, we know, surfer dudes are all absent-minded hippies who smoke pot, it was funny the first thousand times but not so much anymore. Some of the jokes felt forced, and disappointingly Jonah Hill came off more annoying then funny as star-struck hotel employee Matthew.
But as romantic comedies go, “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” is a decent romp through the twists and turns of love and how it affects people. You won’t go wrong giving this picture a chance to make you laugh and feel good afterwards.
Questions? Comments? Contact Sean Hilgeman at hilgeman@msu.edu
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