A better-than-expected comedy

Rating: 8/10 (24 September 2010)

"Forgetting Sarah Marshall" is another in the sequence of comedies bearing Judd Apatow's imprint. Here Apatow acts as producer while the direction is handled by first-timer Nicholas Stoller and the script comes from the pen of star Jason Segel.
The story concerns a guy who gets dumped by the titular Sarah Marshall and has a tough time getting over it. When he follows his brother's advice and vacations in Hawaii he arrives only to find that his ex is staying at the same resort with her new boyfriend. Awkward. Needless to say, hilarity ensues.
I find Jason Segel to be a likable presence in films and this one is no exception. Kristen Bell is also quite likable as Sarah Marshall though I think I wouldn't have much trouble forgetting about her with the lovely Mila Kunis around. Meanwhile, Russell Brand makes a fine addition to the mix with his effortless delivery and cocksure attitude. Add to these some notable individuals in support - including Paul Rudd, Jonah Hill and Bill Hader - and you've got an enviable comedic ensemble.
Nicholas Stoller's direction does the trick though there's not really anything special about it. It competently presents Jason Segel's script, which is funny, insightful and original. I've also got to single out the soundtrack for some special praise; opening as it does with Cake, closing with a Hawaiian translation of "Nothing Compares 2 U" and featuring a number of good tunes in between.
In the end, what elevates this comedy above most of its brethren is the story. The simple premise paves the way for a story that feels authentic while also hitting the right notes for a romantic comedy. Certainly worth viewing in my opinion, though I should note that Segel goes full frontal in a couple of scenes, so you might want to choose your company accordingly.