MOVIE REVIEW: ‘Just Married’ is just dumb — Grade B+
First, I want to explain a little about how I look at a film to review it.
When I see a movie, I judge it against others in the same genre and style. It would be unfair to do this in any other way. With that said, I really enjoyed “Just Married.”
It was not the best comedy I have seen, nor will it win any awards, but it was fun, unassuming and had a nice blend of emotions. The film’s comic moments were consistent and never really went over the mark.
But the real joys of this film were the performances by Ashton Kutcher and Brittany Murphy. They had an even chemistry that really worked in this movie. They never crossed over into the realm of caricatures, which is often the downfall of films like this one. The two made a very nice comic team and complemented each other well.
The film did have a few problems, but what film doesn’t anymore? The great thing with “Just Married” was the work of the actors; they really made up for the film’s shortcomings.
Kutcher, whose fame comes mostly from TV’s “That ’70s Show,” turned in a performance unlike his normal fare. He is best known as the lovable, albeit dumb-as-rocks, boy next door. He does not shed this persona in this film, but he does add some depth and layers that are refreshing.
He shows he will have a career post syndication. Perhaps one of his best one-liners comes when he and his new bride arrive at their first honeymoon stop: “Look Babe! It comes with free nuns!”
Clever writing and great comic timing keep this movie afloat, even as the marriage sinks.
Murphy also turns in a strong performance. She proves she has the stripes to make it in the comic world. But more than that, she has the ability to play the human side of the situation. You feel for her, even though she really is the spoiled, little, rich girl.
What makes her lovable is the fact she is trying to make it on her own without daddy. We are able to connect with her, which is no small feat for any actress. She proved that with her performance in “8 Mile.” This girl has it all.
This movie is charming. It’s one of those films everyone can enjoy — not just a random chick flick. The first half is funny. I don’t know when the last time was I enjoyed a movie this much for its comedy. But the comedy was uneven at times. A little over halfway into the film, it gets serious and stays that way for a while.
But I found that to be part of the charm. Life is really like that and is not always as easy as Hollywood would like us to think it is.
This is a great depiction of love in the present day. It is real. It is honest. But above all else, it is hard. At least we can laugh at it and realize everyone has to go through it.
“Just Married” takes a realistic, yet zany, look at the world of matrimony. The running jokes only got funnier. This is worth the time.
Justin Berry is working toward his second bachelor’s degree in theater performance. Comments can be sent to justinsb26@hotmail.com.