Propose an outing to your pals to see this winning film, romance lovers!!

Rating: 8/10 (22 June 2009)

Margaret Tate (Sandra Bullock) is a domineering, witchy head book editor for Colden Books. When she arrives at the office, fellow workers send alerts on their computers to colleagues, telling them that they better look busy when she passes by. Her long-suffering assistant, Drew Paxton (Ryan Reynolds) brings two coffees to work each day, of her same favorite flavor, in case one of them spills en route. She steps all over him and he detests her, naturally. But, why does he endure Margaret's attitudes? Because, one, he wants to be a major editor himself and, two, he is an aspiring writer with hopes of having his work published. One day, a serious problem arrives. Margaret, a Canadian, learns she is about to be deported, as her work visa has expired. This will mean a loss of job and home, as she can not even work for an American company, from a home computer in Toronto. What to do? Suddenly, Margaret has a plan. She proposes to the unattached Drew, begging him to marry her in name only, until her immigration problem is solved. Then, they can quietly divorce. Drew is horrified but soon realizes he can make some career demands in return. But, the United States authorities are immediately wary that the couple is in love. So, the two head to Drew's hometown of Sitka, Alaska, to announce their engagement at his grandmother Annie's (Betty White) 90th birthday party. They can also get to know one another, for they will have to answer detailed questions about the other's habits soon. Drew's mother, Grace (Mary Steenburgen) is thrilled at the idea of a wedding and insists they marry here and now. Father Joe (Craig T. Nelson) is less enthusiastic and Drew's former flame, Gertrude (Malin Ackerman) comes calling to confuse things as well. And, wait, could it be that Margaret and Drew might actually get along? Romance lovers, take heart, for here is fine flick to satisfy your strongest romcom cravings. First, the actors are great, with Bullock a delight as the unpleasant Margaret and Reynolds just great as the suitor-impostor. (My advice to Reynolds, however, is to make his next film anything BUT a romcom, as we don't want him getting into a rut after Just Friends, Definitely Maybe and now, this one. He's too talented to box himself in.) The supporting cast is also very fine, with White eliciting big laughs. Ackerman, despite being very pleasant, is mostly wasted, however. The setting in Alaska is also a huge asset, as it is overwhelming lovely, making one want to book a cruise right NOW. Costumes and other film amenities are great, too. As for the story, script and direction, they are energetic and amusing, even with some familiar elements. In short, propose a cinematic outing to your closest friends and family, romance lovers. Everyone will say YES to The Proposal when asked about its satisfaction levels.