Review of The Cable Guy (1996) by Johnny T — 30 Apr 2011

The film brilliantly constructs awkward situations that neither character can find ways to get out of and deftly plays with the bizarre nature of human relationships. What makes two people click, and what happens when only one clicks? The mix of light comedy and really quite dark themes proved too much for many viewers, but this is worth a look for Broderick's performance and Carrey's obsessive touches. Those who take Carrey's side will be turned off by his cruel behavior, and those that love to hate him will end up hating the movie's final softshoe. That problem aside, however, the rest of the film is refreshingly funny. There are, unfortunately, precious few surprises here. The Cable Guy is being marketed as a "dark comedy," which I suppose it is, to some extent. Honestly, though, it's just not dark enough.

VERDICT: "Rental" - (Mixed to Negative reaction). These films are only worth renting because of certain good things that are worth seeing, but are not worth paying at a theatre to see due to bad things that overcome anything good.