DVD Review: Crazy Stupid Love

Normally, if I can help it I don’t usually bother with rom-coms, however something about Crazy, Stupid, Love won me over.

With an eclectic ensemble, the film presents various angles on the L word and the effects it can have on the modern family.

Proceedings are kicked off with Cal (Steve Carrell) finding out that his wife Emily (Julianne Moore) has cheated on him with a co-worker (Kevin Bacon) and she wants a divorce.  Cue Cal’s drunken midlife crisis.

As the film progresses we are shown the ripple effects of this situation and how it effects their children Molly and 14 year old Robbie, who is obsessed with their babysitter, Jessica.

Meanwhile, Cal meets the charismatic and stylish Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), a womaniser who manages to charm the knickers off every lady he meets, with the exception of Hannah (Emma Stone).  Jacob takes the vulnerable Cal under his wing and offers to help him get over his divorce and tidy him up a little.

Films like this live or die by their performances and fortunately, everyone here is on top of their game.  Special kudos must go out to Jonah Bobo who leaves a lasting impression as the shamelessly-in-love teenage Robbie.

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone

Marisa Tomei as Kate, one of Cal's conquests

Jonah Bobo and Julianne Moore

Another notable and brilliant turn comes courtesy of Marisa Tomei, who plays Cal’s first post break-up conquest, to excellent comic affect.

What ultimately sets Crazy Stupid Love apart from other rom-coms is it’s tight, witty script which balances the humour and heartbreak of love perfectly.

And with terrific performances from Steve Carrell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Kevin Bacon and Emma Stone, you’d be crazy and stupid to miss it.

Film verdict: [rating=4]

Special Features:
Deleted scenes