Funny People (2009)

DVD CASE/ SIDE

Length of film: 146 Minutes (Unrated: 153 Minutes)

Rated: 15

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Director: Judd Apatow

Starring: Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, Leslie Mann, Eric Bana, Jonah Hill, Jason Schwartzman, Aubrey Plaza

IMDB Rank: 6.3 /10

Part 1 Time: 84 Minutes (Unrated: 89 Minutes)

Part 2 Time: 62 Minutes (Unrated: 64 Minutes)

***The cut on the DVD is somewhat awkward, as it happens in the middle of chapter 13. But the fade to black screen makes this a natural break within the film.

Where does the first part end? George Simmons (Adam Sandler) speaks with Laura (Leslie Mann) on the phone.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “Let’s not go to sleep yet, though, please. Just talk to Laura,” states George Simmons.

First line of dialogue on the second part: George Simmons calls Ira (Seth Rogen) the following day. Ira answers the phone “Hello?”

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, life has taken a dramatic twist for George Simmons, who has now gotten a second chance at life. He has rekindled his relationship with Laura and has been cured of his inoperable health condition. Will George use his second chance at life less selfishly?

Which part is better? Not your typical Adam Sandler comedy movie as the film explores mature themes such as death and companionship and love, which at times seems to fit more within the drama genre. The film is quite long and can seem to drag on. Part one stands out primarily for the celebration dinner scene where Eminem has a very funny altercation with Ray Romeo, a highlight of the film. Overall, this film is specifically geared towards a particular subset of film goers and can be compared to the taste of Guinness beer where you will either love it, or detest it.

Academy Awards: None