Saturday, February 16, 2013

Movie Review: Celeste and Jesse Forever (2012)

"Celeste and Jesse Forever" is not your typical rom-com (romantic comedy).  This is much more of a drama because though the title characters Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Adam Samberg) seem like the perfect couple, they are actually a married couple going through a divorce.  They were friends practically their whole lives and transitioned into an early marriage but while the romance has faded the friendship is still alive and well.  This friendship is severely tested when Jesse begins to move on with someone else and Celeste begins to question her decisions.

There's a lot to like in this film.  First of all, it's better written than most films in its genre and features a very well-developed female character (Celeste).  The audience sees a very complicated relationship in this film and the characters have tough decisions to make and sometimes question.  I think this film really gives a boost to Jones as a real actress with depth and to films that offer more than just superficial romantic storylines that we've seen a thousand times.  Again, it's not perfect (like why is Elijah Woods wasted in his tiny role as Celeste's business partner and what's with Emma Roberts' character) but there's a lot to like here.

If you're a Rashida Jones fan, then run out to rent this one.  Samberg fans, maybe not because he's not the standard funny-guy here.  This one will be a hit for those seeking something other than the typical "rom-com" - B

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