Review of The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005) by Kevin P — 09 Feb 2018

Strengths: For some, it's a classic, and part of the reason why is just how funny and quotable it is. There are several standout scenes of hilarity. Watching Andy (Steve Carrell) get his ridiculous chest hair waxed will never not make me laugh, while the speed dating scene gives us some rapid fire comedy and character moments. Carell has his star making performance here, perfectly playing Andy with the right amount of heart, humor, and awkwardness. Alongside him is a strong supporting cast. Romany Malco (Jay) is easily the highlight, while Seth Rogen (Cal) and Paul Rudd (David) are both fun. Even the people with lesser roles, like Leslie Mann and Elizabeth Banks, are great. The smaller cameos, like Kevin Hart and Jonah Hill, are pretty fun as well.

Weaknesses: The length feels like a bit much. It's not egregious, but there are definitely scenes that feel extra. Jane Lynch (Paula) singing to Andy felt like something that we didn't need to see. Though the movie is very funny, several jokes totally miss the mark. I would've liked a bit more of an arc for Rogen's character. David and Jay get their own small arcs and they grow, but Cal feels like he's just there's purely for comedy. I would've liked more.

Overall: It's a classic comedy and the best work for Judd Apatow until This is 40. Steve Carrell is perfect in the role and carries one of the better comedies of the decade. The ensemble helps lead the way and picks up the slack for any of the few writing issues.