Review of Don Jon (2013) by Lloydharrison — 25 Nov 2014

Don Jon turns the rom-com formulae on it's head and it refreshingly feels targeted at men as apposed to women. Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been one of my favourite actors in recent years and I was intrigued to see Don Jon knowing that it was a project he'd written and directed himself.

And I'm pleased to say that Joseph Gordon-Levitt comfortably delivers in every respect. In the last few years his career has quietly built momentum and his recent run of form in front of the camera has been impressive.

And this refreshing directorial debut boasts his capabilities behind the camera also. The overall direction moves at a thoroughly enjoyable pace and visually this an attractive and theatrical experience.

This film humorously compares and analysis both male and females perspectives of the opposite sex, relationships, morals and habits. And most significantly this film tackles the subject of pornography and how stereotypically men and women feel about it.

Whilst there are aspects of this film that are undoubtedly dramatic and theatrical, there are also many moments that are relatable and will hit him for male viewers in particular. Joseph Gordon-Levitt gives a fun and charismatic performance in the leading role.

Whilst the equally impressive Scarlett Johansson stars opposite and the chemistry between the pair is refreshingly original and unpredictable. The supporting cast is strong also with humorous performances from Tony Danza & Glenne Headly who play stereotypical father and mother figures respectively.

Julianne Moore gives a decent performance also and her character brings the story back down to earth with a much wiser perspective on sex and relationships. First and for most this is an enjoyable and harmless rom-com.

But what I love most Don Jon and what sets it aside from other rom-coms, is that ultimately it avoids rom-com cliches at all costs.