Product: Someone Like You [VHS] (2001)
Rating: 5.0
Someone Like Hugh ... and Ashley
This is a great romantic comedy. I wouldn't say that it's surprising or rip-roaring hilarious, but it is different. It's not your typical girl meets boy, they don't like each other, then they fall in love routine. This one is a threesome of sorts, which adds an interesting angle ... or triangle as the case may be. Ashley Judd plays PR person (or something of that nature - her title isn't named) Jane Goodall for a sleazy Sally-Jessie-esque talkshow in NYC. Ellen Barkin turns in a very good performance as the sleazy talkshow host. Also working at this talkshow set are Ray (Greg Kinnear) and Eddie (Hugh Jackman). Kinnear's boyish good looks and charm make it easy to believe that Judd's character falls in love with him quickly, but make a little surprising to find that he's such a pig ... er, bull. The animal comparisons that underlie the entire plot add a lot of spice to this quintessential chick flick. And I do mean chick flick, if ever there was one. This is one of those movies where women who have ever had their hearts broken can cheer Judd on in her emotional journey (and breakdown). Men without a sense of humor may be a bit offended or take exception to the premise, but all comes out well in the end as in all romantic comedies. Hugh Jackman gives a stellar performance as a hunky womanizer with a sensitive side. Ashley Judd is her usual perky, plucky, sweet self in this film, and her comedic timing is good too. Greg Kinnear, as previously mentioned, was a good choice for his role as the third main character in this love triangle. Also worth mentioning is the lesser part played by Marissa Tomei, as Jane's best friend Liz. Tomei is as good as ever, even in this small supporting role -- and so adorable! I own this DVD and have seen it at least five times -- it's a definite buy for any woman who is a fan of romantic comedies.