Decent, but doesn't live up to the hype

Rating: 8/10 (13 December 2007)

I fail to see why critics gushed over this flick. So much was made of the plot concept, Seth Rogen's charm, and certain "shocking" birthing scenes (which were actually only risqué if you consider simulations of the birthing process shocking) that the movie's flaws seem to have been overlooked.
The most major flaw was the failed realization of the Pete & Debbie relationship. Their marriage was supposed to be the vehicle through which Ben & Alison could see themselves in 10 years, and also to provide examples of issues faced in a mature marriage. The concept failed completely due to miscasting the Debbie role and writing her as an irrational and whiny control freak. Rather than providing a balanced and stimulating study of a mature marriage, the Debbie character came across as so annoying that I had absolutely no sympathy for her. In fact, I literally almost turned off the movie during one of her more irritating diatribes.
Second, Rogen's roommates were moderately amusing at best. I applaud the use of relative unknowns in these roles, but none of them exuded quite enough personality to make their individual character stand out. I realize Apatow was going more for realism than cartoonish characterizations, but seeing as how the roommates were the main source of comic relief, a little more "Animal House" here would have been welcome.
I didn't have a real problem with other aspects of the film. Rogen was indeed the standout of the movie, and Heigl also delivered an excellent performance. Paul Rudd was sympathetic and amusing.
Was it the "comedy event of the year?" No. Were there enough chuckles to make it worthwhile? Yes. Does Apatow deserve his "young genius" reputation? Not based solely on this flick.