Full of clichés but enjoyable

Rating: 6/10 (27 June 2009)

If you are a fan of Simon Pegg because of films like SEAN OF THE DEAD or HOT FUZZ, then you might be a bit disappointed in this film. It isn't that it's a bad film but that the style is so different and it really isn't nearly as funny as these two previous films. In addition, this is certainly not a movie I would have wanted to see in the theaters, but it's more of a movie to rent or watch if you happen to have Showtime. In other words, it's a pleasant little time-passer...just not much more.
The story is about a cowardly jerk that left his pregnant girlfriend at the alter. This and the first 1/3 of the film really make you hate Pegg--he is very unlikable. Selfish and whiny--as well as cowardly. It's also hard not to turn off the film because he's such a jerk. However, soon after his ex-girlfriend introduces her new boyfriend (Hank Azaria), Pegg is filled with jealousy--especially when Pegg's son seems to perhaps like the new guy more than him. So, just to keep up, Pegg announces that he, too, will be running in a charity marathon--even though it's only two weeks until the race and Pegg is really out of shape.
What happens next and how Pegg's character grows is all straight by-the-numbers. There are absolutely no surprises here at all, though the ride along the way is pleasant. And, when "Mr. Perfect" (Azaria) blows up near the end and shows his dark side, this, too, seemed quite predictable. But, the characters are endearing (particularly Pegg's Indian neighbor) and the film has a nice feel, so you can't help but finish the film--and perhaps end it with a smile. However, don't expect any magic or major surprises.