Review of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (2008) by Kevin P — 04 Apr 2018

Strengths: It's always crucial in this kind of movie, so the chemistry between the leads has to be good. Thankfully, Michael Cera (Nick) and Kat Dennings (Norah) have it. They work well together. Cera is basically the perfect casting for Nick, as it's the exact kind of character Cera has made a career playing. Most of the supporting cast is strong. Aaron Yoo (Thom) is really funny as Nick's gay friend. There were also some funny cameos from guys like Andy Samberg and John Cho. You can't help but laugh at those guys. For a film about two people who find a connection through their common taste in music, a quality soundtrack is a must and this movie has that. It's good music, but it works very well because it fits the characters and the situations.

Weaknesses: Ari Graynor (Caroline) is typically solid in her roles, but this feels very one note. She's annoying and doesn't do anything but play the drunk girl. It's funny early on. Then, it just gets tired quickly and there are diminishing returns with each of her scenes. Some of the humor is pretty juvenile and those are the weakest comedic moments of the entire film. There's a lack of believability as well, since these high school teens are freely able to drink and go clubbing in New York. The tacked on storyline of Norah having never had an orgasm before felt like a strange one. It came from out of nowhere and led to a seemingly forced scene where Nick gives her one. It's kind of a leap for her character to allow Nick to get that far in their first night together.

Overall: There's a fair amount to like about this movie. It's quirky, tells a fine love story, and has some funny moments. The leads have good chemistry, which helps things along. There are some bits that miss the mark and a few logic leaps. Still, this is a cute little way to spend an hour and a half.