The power of positive thinking

Rating: 8/10 (3 January 2010)

Carl Allen (Carrey) a negative no man is challenged to say yes to everything that comes his way, which he accepts in the hope of becoming a better person The concept of saying yes to everything that comes your way is an interesting prospect given that there are so many situations which would normally require a no. Myself, a fairly negative person, was quite thrilled when I first watched this a year ago, being completely transfixed by the apparent ease like Carrey's character. Sadly for me it never materialized because I ruined the film through criticizing the standard formatting of the final stages. Now however I can see past that.
Jim Carrey starring in another big idea comedy sets us in motion as we follow him in his life by saying no to everything and anything. When a friend shows him what he is missing out of life he turns up at a positive say yes lecture and the film is set in motion.
His first act of positive thinking is to give a homeless man a trip far out of his way, lending him his phone and money. This spells comedy light heartedness and some charming Carrey wisdom which because of his helpfulness leads to something good.
Carrey the arguable king of physical comedy is slightly held back here. There isn't as much wide mouthed madness as in The Mask or brilliant cleverness from Ace Ventura. This comedy portrayal feels like his Liar Liar character which allows him some more normal man approach, which is what the character needed given the context of the film. Carrey, performing most of his own stunts including the bungee jump sequence still flies high with some physical comedy, particularly the motorbike sequences.
Zooey Deschanel fills the necessary love interest role with some clever contentedness. The best supporting star is Rhys Darby who brings the stereotype of nerd to a new level with some very amusing and elaborate comedy. The Harry Potter party is pure genius.
This film boasts one healthy soundtrack with Zooey and her band on particular fine tune with positive springy songs.
Characters and performances aside, this is all about the apparent simplicity of saying yes. Carl initially rejects everything then after the lecture starts his yes streak before learning how to control it.
There are only a few problems with this film's projection and pitching of using this ideology in your real life.
For one Carl is at a very good job and is earning plentiful. Therefore when opportunities arise he is able to take them without worrying about the consequences, which wouldn't necessarily be the case for all viewers. The second is that whilst the film is undeniably feel good and energetic, the descent into conventional story has been tackled too frequently in comedies.
However this film has an advantage over other comedies as it is beneficial for the human personality. Saying yes is certainly more encouraging, so say yes and see.