Funny and dramatic despite Jim Carrey

Rating: 6/10 (28 May 2003)

What a pleasure seeing a summer comedy that didn't gross me out or insult my intelligence. And despite the over-the-top scenes in the trailer and the premise the movie actually follows through on the messages that actions have consequences and that you need to learn what is important in life.
Morgan Freeman was great and was able to swing between the serious and the silly with Carrey. Jennifer Aniston was really good with her somewhat limited character. The rest of the cast were nice in the various character roles. I just think the movie could have been improved by substituting some other comedian for Carrey. His over-the-top style actually slowed the movie down in places--for example, the diner scene or his remote-control payback at the TV studio.
I will admit that his reaction when everything comes crashing down around him was really nice, though. In fact, the climax gave me the welcome surprise of not copping out of the situation that had been set up. It was a better film than I expected.
Rating: matinee with popcorn (7/10)