Review of Larry Crowne (2011) by Steven C — 06 Apr 2012

"Larry Crowne" was made under the most congenial of circumstances. The film seems to exist because Tom Hanks (star, director, co-writer) wanted to make a film with all his friends. This sense of amiability transcends to the screen making "Larry Crowne" one of the most effortlessly fluffy and charming romantic comedies in a long while.

Unfortunately, the basic premise of the film, a man who is forced to redefine himself late in life due to job cutbacks, is *so* timely that the endless cheese-ball attitude nearly kills any sociological resonance.

But do know that the film is so harmless, so light on it's feet, so family friendly that you can literally take anyone you know to go see it. Should be expect more edge from Hanks? Sure. But like I said, he's just in this for the fun and so should you.

Julia Roberts is the real star of this film though, stealing every single scene with her sassy and lightly misanthropic attitude. "Larry Crowne" is far from being a bad film, but it is a disappointingly light one.

Still, it works in it's favor because general audiences can do so much worse. If you are looking to watch something with your whole family and not feel insulted in any way, "Larry Crowne" is your ticket.