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Upon seeing
the first trailer, I immediately formed the assumption that "40
Days and 40 Nights" would be just another stupid semi-teen
romantic comedy, along the lines of "Down to You". Of
course, I did have my reservations, the slight hope that it might
transcend the stereotypes and actually be worth watching, this opinion
based solely on the vigorous ad campaign for the film, one that was
started almost a half a year ago, making this film long awaited.
After seeing the film, I must say that it was well worth the price of
the movie ticket
Josh
Hartnett plays Matt, a young man so disgusted with his title as
'sexual predator' that he decides to use the holiday of Lent to quit
sex--that's 40 days and 40 nights without any sexual activity
whatsoever. The film is pretty much about his trials,
temptations, and ordeals throughout the period of sex-free living, and
features a very talented cast of young talent. The film also
deals with the role of the internet, as Matt's sexual mission is
displayed to the entire world. Shannyn Sossamon stars as
Erica, a girl who eventually falls for Matt. He falls for her
too, but frustrates her by not succumbing to their mutual sexual
attraction. Paulo Costanzo is quite funny as one of Matt's
friends who uses a black light to search for bodily fluids on Matt's
bed.
"40
Days and 40 Nights" is directed by the great Michael Lehmann, who
did such a marvelous job with "The Truth About Cats and
Dogs". Josh Hartnett is one of my favorite actors, and in
this film, he shows his range of ability, demonstrating that he can go
from deviousness and intensity in "O"
and follow up with hilarious physical comedy.
The only
flaw with this film is the ending. I don't want to give anything
away, but it doesn't quite live up to the rest of the film and it is
moderately disappointing. Alas, even though the ending felt
tacked on, Hartnett's performance and the rest of the cast made this
film enjoyable to watch from start to finish. Griffin Dunne even
pops up in a cameo, and Griffin Dunne is absolutely great in any role
he receives--I wish he would get back into the mainstream again.
So, if you want to watch a nice romantic comedy, or if you just think
Josh Hartnett is hot--this is the film for you.
-- Billy
Ray (
2 1/2 out of 4 pops )
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