Review of The Invention of Lying (2009) by Jessi H — 27 May 2011

I really enjoyed this film. Its heartwarming, humorous, and extremely well cast. Its not hilarious as âBruce Almightyâ? was, but its entertaining and enjoyable as it goes on. Was it brought out to its fullest? I think it brought out a lot of heart. The lie-free world is believable, and the attention to detail is what brings subtle humor to the world. I think my favorite parts were the advertising for Coke and Pepsi.

It's a heartwarming tale of true love without the need for make out scenes or intimacy on screen. In fact, I donâ(TM)t think anyone kissed! It shows love is more than physical. It brings out what is best between two people, a friendship in which each person brings out the best in the other.

Lying is explored in both ways. It can be used to deceive others or it can be used to bring joy. It can comfort, it can give courage, and it can make a person better. In a world where everyone is honest to the point of cruelty, you begin to appreciate that a white lie here and there is not such a bad thing. If all people see is who you are physically, then as a whole people are missing so much. Its about becoming more than how you look or what people see you as. Its another story that gives us whatâ(TM)s on the inside is what counts, but it gives it to us with some chuckles and creativity.

Whatâ(TM)s best about this movie is that while Gervias may use lies to get money to pay his rent or get him his job back, he never uses it to manipulate the woman heâ(TM)s in love with. He keeps a sense of realism about his choices. He knows that if he lies to make her love him, it will never be real love. The script never goes to extremes with the manipulation, which is refreshing. Gervaisâ(TM) character also realizes that while lies may create an instant joy, its effects are not lasting, and the lies cannot change who a person is or what they feel. The concept is genius, and its well executed.

The downsides: Putting religion into the "lie" category was a bit of a hard swallow, but the pizza boxes helped to lighten the mood. This movie is not meant to be taken too seriously either. It does not push those boundaries. It gives us a world where two characters realize that life is better with each other than without no matter how anyone else judges them.