Family Comes First

Rating: 9/10 (1 July 2006)

In "Click" Adam Sandler plays Michael Newman, who comes to possess a miraculous "universal remote" that literally controls his entire universe including fast forward and skip features. However, left unchecked Michael skips the unpleasant and fast forwards to the good parts of his life, and he misses years of his life and also years in the lives of those he loves. This clever story is a little unexpected coming from Adam Sandler, who gives one of his best performances. Frank Coraci's direction of the story by Steve Koren and Mark O'Keefe seamlessly shifts from frivolous comedy to poignant sentimentality. I have read movie reviews that have slammed "Click" for being shamelessly sentimental. What else is it supposed to be? Granted Koren and O'Keefe's story is uneven with some distractingly stupid gags. However, their point is that for most of us, if we are not truly present in own lives will run in auto pilot or fast forward, and miss out on the things that are really important in life. So when Sandler's Michael comes to the realization that "Family comes first." that resonates with us. "Click" also gets points for being fun and funny. Coraci balances the message and the comedy, in the context of the love story of Michael and Donna (the amazing and beautiful Kate Beckinsale).
Michael Newman (Sandler) is an architect on the fast track with his firm. Michael works ridiculous hours and that places a tremendous strain on his family-- for his wife Donna and his kids Ben (Joseph Castanon) and Samantha (Tatum McCann). Michael's boss Amner (a very funny David Hasselhoff) is demanding and completely clueless. Michael's future as firm partner depends on making Amner look good. One night when Michael is working a deadline, the DVD remote goes out, and he must watch that client DVD. So Michael heads to his local Bed, Bath, and Beyond. In the "Beyond" section Michael meets apparent mad scientist Morty (awesome Christopher Walken). Morty gives Michael the "state-of-the-art" universal remote, under the condition that he can't return it. Morty tells Michael, "Even nice guys need to catch a break" Back home Michael realizes the actual power of his universal remote. There are the associated high jinx involved with the mute, slow motion, and fast forward features. Michael is a good guy, who thinks that by getting ahead and being successful in his career is the best way he can provide for his family. He loves his family dearly, and he soon realizes that he is responsible for how his life works out. Years go by in a flash and things don't always turn out as you intend. Michael learns, "Be careful what you wish for."
Adam Sandler plays his standard smart ass self balanced with amazing vulnerability and compassion. This is so refreshing. Sandler also demonstrates a depth of range as his Michael goes through the different character arcs. He is touching when he tells Donna (Beckinsale) the love of his life, "Forever and ever." He is heartbreaking in a scene with his father (excellent Henry Winkler), when he realizes that his father always loved him, but as his son he never told his Dad how much he loved him. Along with Sandler, Beckinsale's Donna also ages over the years. She is just rock solid and carries Michael and Donna's relationship as it evolves to catharsis. Beckinsale is light and funny and at the same time has a gentle strength. Christopher Walken is awesome as Morty. As Michael's guide he brings the right touch of whimsy and gravitas. Morty turns out to be more than just a guide. Sandler, Beckinsale, and Walken expertly navigate "Click"'s journey from standard comedy to sentimental and reflective.
"Click" is funny and ultimately touching and poignant. An unexpected surprise. In a departure from his standard fare, Adam Sandler is at his vulnerable best. Kate Beckinsale and Christopher Walken are great. This is Sandler's version of Frank Capra. It's different, and definitely worth watching.