I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry

Posted by Robert Fure (robert@filmschoolrejects.com) on November 13, 2007

New on DVD and HD-DVD is the comedy from Adam Sandler and Kevin James, I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry. The film sparked somewhat of a controversy with its frank language regarding homosexuals and its “racist” stereotype character portrayed by Rob Schneider as “Asian Minister.” Is it a foul offensive movie? No. Is it a good movie? Not really. Is it funny? Absolutely.

I know, I know, it seems odd to say it’s funny but it’s not a good film. But really it’s not that good, but I did find myself laughing out loud several times, something I rarely do. It is definitely worth a viewing if you’re a fan of some rough comedy and Adam Sandler films. Also, Jessica Biel is in it.

The story follows the two titular fireman as they pretend to be a homosexual couple to get benefits for Larry’s kids. They obviously choose the elaborate ruse of pretending to be a gay couple, wedding in Canada, and moving in together. But both the Fire Chief (Dan Akroyd) and the lead investigator (Steve Buscemi) feel something is amiss and soon Chuck and Larry are going to extremes to prove their gay love to each other.

The film has its highs and lows, but when its funny, its laugh out loud funny. I really found it quite enjoyable despite myself. The extras on the disc include outtakes, behind the scenes footage, a featurette on stunts and one on the many, many, many cameos. Everyone who has ever been in an Adam Sandler film shows up, with very few exceptions. You also get some commentaries and a little look into the processes of director Dennis Dugan.

This review focuses on the HD-DVD, which also includes an interactive friendship test and web-enabled features. The picture is HD-30 format and is displayable at a full 1080p with 5.1 surround sound. I know what you’re thinking. Is Chuck and Larry really better in HD-DVD? The answer is yes, for several reasons. No, not the fires. Not the fire trucks. Nothing like that. But how about a soaking wet Jessica Biel in her underwear? How about Jessica Biel in a super tight catsuit? How about Jessica Biel just being Jessica Biel and oozing sexy all over the screen in glorious HD. The film is worth a watch in HD just to check out that bodacious body. Mmm. Delicious.

Now for those of you who haven’t chosen a side in the format war, this HD-DVD is a two sided disc offering up a regular DVD on the flip. So if you’re planning on going HD or just don’t have the player yet, don’t dismiss this disc out of hand. HD-DVD currently has a slight advantage over Sony (like 52-48, so by far the war is not over) and the picture is beautiful, so consider it.

All in all this disc and this movie are worth a look.

The Upside: Genuine laugh out loud moments and sweet sweet Jessica Biel in all her toned, wet, glistening glory.

The Downside: The use of slow-motion seems awkward and the directing style stumbles here and there.

On the Side: This movie is perfect for a drinking game – drink any time you see a cameo. You’ll be plastered 40 minutes in. Or, conversely, take a drink every time you have to put a pillow on your lap, if you know what I mean, and I think you do.

Grade: B

Release Date: November 6, 2007 Rated: PG-13 Running Time: 116 minutes Number of Discs: 1 Cast: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Jessica Biel Director: Dennis Dugan Studio: Universal Studios

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