Hilarious throughout -- many/most critics are clueless!

Rating: 9/10 (26 July 2009)

I thought the Hollywood Reporter (or maybe it was the Tulsa critic) that got the basics, at least in part; this romantic COMEDY has a male viewpoint, as opposed to what's been offered for more than a couple of years now in romantic comedies. Quite simply, "the relationship adviser as a crude Alpha Male" premise is a surprise, especially with some defeats, insecurity, caring and polish is weaved into his interactions. He is not a misogynist, nor even a sexist, given his early recognition of Heigl's producer skill and contribution to the show. Perhaps one can't be certain of that, unless you sit through the laughs in entire film...
By and large, other (up tight or elitist?) critics just don't get it! I'm reminded of the 70s, Mr. Mom's role-reversal film premise decades ago -- the critics blew that too. Neither plots were "predictable" except that in such films, it almost always ends well for the main players. But make no mistake, the key plot and broadcast scenes were original and hilarious -- parts reminded me of Mad's old, "TV scenes we'd like to see..."
In our showing, the audience was filled almost entirely with mixed-gender groups, who laughed though out this film. Note: there were few kids as it should be. The plot and dialog were both situationally and language surprising, because we're not used to THE UGLY TRUTH being shown an spoken in it's most basic form.
Finally, we care about the characters. And in spite of the Relationship Alpha Male vs. Business Alpha Female premise, I expect the gender score ended up pretty close overall. Our matinée discount was completely unnecessary; this film was well worth it even at the over $10 full price + our time.