Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)

Crazy, Stupid, Love. is one of the better “dramadies” that I have seen in a while.

Sweet-talking ladies man Jacob (Ryan Gosling) takes newly, almost single Cal (Steve Carell) under his wing and tries to help him get back out into the dating scene.  This sets off a dysfunctional chain reaction in both of their lives and hilarity ensues along with craziness, stupidity, and love.

The film has just the right blend of laughs and drama.  It may go a little overboard in one direction or the other at times, but that just helps to capitalize on the subject matter and keep the film exciting.

Carell does better when more comedy is involved and Gosling is more of a serious actor.  Both actors’ styles complemented each other very well and I think that working together enabled them each to go a little bit out of their comfort zones as to what is usually the norm for them.  Gosling pulled off being funny and Carell managed to get serious.  Carell has proved that serious doesn’t usually work for him (i.e.  Seeking a Friend for the End of the World (2012)), but it did in Crazy, Stupid, Love.  Gosling didn’t become a comedian by any means.  He has always managed to be pretty witty and clever, but he added funny to the mix.

The movie also has strong female characters played by Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, and Marisa Tomei.  Each woman was able to bring a level of wholesomeness to their roles with a touch of quirkiness.  This complemented the film quite well and helped to make it a bit unpredictable.

Other supporting cast includes Kevin Bacon, Analeigh Tipton, Jonah Bobo, Joey King, Beth Littleford, John Carroll Lynch, Josh Groban, and Liza Lapira.

Josh Groban proved that he should stick to singing and leave the acting to the actors.

The film was directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa.

If you are looking for a good date movie (whether you are married or not), look no further than Crazy, Stupid, Love.  It is humorous and touching at the same time.  It is not a “chick flick.”  It is a film that both men and women will enjoy.

I rate this movie an 8 on a scale of 1-10.

Buy, rent, or run?  Buy.

If you liked Crazy, Stupid, Love., then you will probably enjoy:

The Big Wedding (2013)

The Way, Way Back (2013)

Stuck in Love (2012)