Review of Celeste & Jesse Forever (2012) by Jonathan B — 07 Apr 2013

On a foundational level, Celeste and Jesse Forever is flawed. It's not the concept, which has plenty of potential in dealing with a best friend marriage-separation, but it's the way the characters are written.

Too often does it resort to them acting stupidly, saying things they obviously don't mean, or playing up certain dramatic/awkward moments. It doesn't quite all work, and it's a shame too because Rashida Jones and Andy Samberg show off some impressive dramatic chops they've never had much chance to use before.

I'm especially a fan of Jones, who also co-wrote the screenplay, who shows she has what it takes to be a legit leading lady. I respect how she and company are trying to add some realistic heft through the lens of Hollywood romance, but again the ridiculousness of some of the character work and unresolved feelings stuff takes you out of the story.

It's a admirable attempt, especially for first time writers or if you're a fan of the cast, but ultimately that's all it is, an attempt, one likely to be remembered as a footnote to bigger and better things.