Review of Dedication (2007) by Tom B — 31 Jan 2008

While at the local porn theatre watching a porn film about prostitutes and sailors, Rudy (Wilkenson) and Henry (Crudup) come up with the idea for a childrenâ??s novel called â??Marty the Beaverâ??. Despite the expectations of the very anxious and neurotic Henry, the book is picked up by an editor (Balaban), and becomes somewhat of a success. Upon the demise of Rudy, Henry is teamed up with a struggling animator Lucy (Moore) to fulfill a contractual obligation â??Marty the Beaverâ?? sequel.

As Lucy struggles with her own neuroses, stemming mostly from her peculiar mother (Wiest), she reluctantly takes on this task for the promise of a $200,000.00 payday. It is a challenge for Lucy, as Henrysâ?? neuroses manifest themselves primarily in cynical defensive commentary in an effort to hurt those around them.

Eventually the pair begin to appreciate and respect each other as Henry attempts to overcome his own idiosyncracies, and Lucy overcomes an old boyfriend (Freeman) who wonâ??t leave her life completely.

First time screenwriter David Bromberg has crafted a formulaic romantic comedy that defies the very rules it adheres to. The result is refreshing, and surprisingly more tender than the saccharine romances weâ??ve become accustomed to. There is a balancing act in constructing a film that asks the question â??how horrible can a human being be, and still be loved?â??, and Bromberg succeeds in the balance. There is a humanity and sorrow in Henry, even while he is saying and doing horrible things to everyone around him.

Actor turned director Justin Theroux (American Psycho, Six Feet Under) struggles tonally with this film. The unnecessary avid farts that attempt to make the film edgy, actually detract from the story. He also doesnâ??t get a solid handle on shifting between comedy and drama, and instead focuses on stylization, which in turn distances the audience from a possible emotional catharsis.

Crudup is in typically fine form. He excels with neurotic and unlikable characters, and brings them the depth and humanity necessary to make them work on screen. This film could have very well faltered with a lesser actor in this role. Mandy Moore has again proven that she can carry her weight in serious adult roles. She brings life to her character, and a strength to a woman who ultimately falls for a naturally abusive man.

Despite the issues with Therouxâ??s amateurish direction, the film works. The performances, and particularly strong writing make "Dedication" a film worth watching.