Better than usual Sandler fare

Rating: 5/10 (22 June 2004)

50 First Dates is a nice compromise for Adam Sandler. After Punch-Drunk Love, many hoped he would stick to dramatic roles, yet at the same time, legions of fans chanted that a foolish idea like that was "Borophyll". Thus, as a kind of compromise for both camps- we have 50 First Dates.
The film tells the story of Henry Roth, a Hawaiian native with a massive fear of commitment. One day, Henry meets Lucy at a local pancake house, and after falling for her- soon realizes something is amiss. The rest of the film chronicles Henry's repeated attempts to woo Lucy- and once he gets her- his attempts to remind her how much she really loves him.
Sandler is back to classic Happy Gilmore comedy form here. But he seems to have matured quite a bit. He actually seems to show a real love for Barrymore- and the two have undeniable chemistry on screen (even if the scenes with kissing in the rain are a little cliché). Having harnessed the anger of his early career, Sandler has finally made himself out to be one who is able to accomplish more than pee and fart jokes.
Overall, 50 First dates is nothing special. it won't attract droves of prepubescents to their local Blockbusters, and it won't attract critical acclaim like a film by P.T. Anderson. But it is fun and sweet, and It makes work for Adam Sandler's friends.
And isn't that what a movies are all about?-6/10
Line of the Movie: "You were going for a feelski!"
Look of the Movie: Sean Astin when his...problem is revealed in front of his dad and sister.