Blame it on the alcohol

Rating: 8/10 (10 June 2009)

Todd Phillips, the writer/director of Road Trip, Old School, and Starsky & Hutch, brings us another rowdy trip through manhood with The Hangover. We follow Doug (Justin Bartha), his best friends Phil (Bradley Cooper) and Stu (Ed Helms), as well as Alan (Zach Galifianakis), Doug's future brother in-law, who plan on making Doug's bachelor party one to remember. It's certainly memorable, but not the night itself.
The morning after Phil, Stu, and Alan find themselves back in their hotel suite with very little clothing, a chicken, a baby, a missing tooth, and no Doug. Oh, and their is a tiger in the bathroom. The three set out in search for the missing groom who has a day to be back in L.A. in less than two days for his wedding. They take the baby, shake off their hangovers, and hit the strip looking for clues that lead them to the hospital, a wedding chapel, and Mike Tyson's house.
The story is as ridiculous as it sounds, but I was still completely engrossed in what was going on. I couldn't believe how messed up their night was, yet I was completely focused on what would happen next. It's the kind of film where from the start you just accept that crazy things are going to happen and you just enjoy the ride.
The three leads, Cooper, Helms, and Galifianakis could not have been better choices. Cooper has the looks and charisma to handle his "too cool" character. Helms, more commonly known as Andy Bernard on NBC's "The Office", is perfect as the nice guy with a mean streak (and missing tooth). Galifianakis could not have made me laugh any more than I did. His looks alone let you know you can't take him seriously. He is pudgy, childish, and completely engrossed in his character.
Unlike some filmmakers who make similar films, Phillips has not fallen off his game. He didn't get lazy and go through the motions. Each scene, each line, and each set up follow through in their delivery and add to the flow of the film. There were times when the action might get a little too serious, but he brings us back from reality and throws a one liner or situation you can't help but laugh at. It's so enjoyable.
I really didn't know what to expect coming into this film and I sure am pleased with the results. I didn't anticipate liking The Hangover as much as I did and it is probably going to be one of the best films I will see this summer. If you are of age and are in need of a good laugh, go see this. I take that back. If you are of age go see it anyways. It's worth the price of admission and then some.