A sex comedy that goes for the heart instead of the crotch

Rating: 7/10 (5 January 2008)

The most important component of a successful comedy is the cast. In this case, we have a well-assembled cast working from an intelligent (though sometimes raunchy) script. Steve Carrell is perfectly suited to the title role. He is able to effortlessly assume an air of awkwardness which is essential in portraying the character. The supporting cast is also solid and play off one another wonderfully.
The story is engaging and does a good job of balancing humour and humanity. I can't recall a lot of 'laugh out loud' moments but I was snickering throughout the entire movie. I should mention that despite being a 'sex comedy' there isn't really a lot of overt sexuality in the movie, even in the 'unrated' version.
I do have one minor quibble about the storyline, though. It seems to me that Andy's eventual transformation is a little too drastic. To me, it would have been more effective (and realistic) if he had retained some of the hallmark characteristics of his earlier persona.
Also, I just didn't 'get' the "Age of Aquarius" finale and thought that it was a pretty tiresome way to end to the movie. However, I fully recommend that you see the movie for the approximately two hours leading up to that point.