Review of How Do You Know (2010) by Kaspars R — 15 Apr 2011
In spite of a generic and forgettable title, How Do You Know has a needlessly convoluted plot, especially for a romantic comedy.
It seems simple on paper. Lisa (Reese Witherspoon) likes Matty (Owen Wilson). George (Paul Rudd) also likes Lisa. Some competition ensues and Lisa must choose who is right for her.
It's hard to pick just one area where HDYK falls flat. George is wrapped up in some kind of federal investigation. It's unnecessary and confusing. That whole subplot feels like a gimmick to give Jack Nicholson screen time.
Apparently, writer/director James L. Brooks figured viewers can't get enough of cell phone interruptions. He likes them so much that he worked them into the film. It seems like every 5-10 minutes, one of the characters' phones starts ringing. It's obnoxious and interrupts any kind of pacing the film was going for.
That said, the actors perform well. Witherspoon is passable. Nicholson's comedic timing is above average. Wilson is every character he is always been. Rudd is especially charming.
Still, it's hard to recommend a movie that is so predictable and formulaic.
If there is one redeeming aspect, at least How Do You Know stars a quirky, romantic, male lead that isn't Michael Cera.
This review of How Do You Know (2010) was written by Kaspars R on 15 Apr 2011.
How Do You Know has generally received mixed reviews.
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