Review of The Promotion (2008) by Corey M — 17 Nov 2008

This only gets as far as it does because of the earnest performances of all the actors, they give the script much more gravity than it deserves. The main problem with the film is not the careening tone but it spells out too clearly how it balances Doug and Richard.

When one does something bad to the other, they bounce back and it goes on in circles. Then the film tries to tell us that these two have grown as individuals towards the end when in fact they have been nudged along conveniently in scenes to own up to what they have done.

I do think there is some spot on representation of the workplace, though any wit shown is constantly undermined by the over explanatory narration. The way Scott sounds in this narration is too at ease, making it overly obvious that the film is trying to have us pull for him despite Reilly being an alright guy.

I really did not like this movie, but I really really liked the performances. Reilly has proven himself before as a dramatic actor and this is one of his best to actually mix his comedic chops with the dramatic; while Scott actually proves himself as a competent actor.

If only their material was better. Actually Conrad, the director who also wrote the overwrought Pursuit of Happyness proves himself as a better director than writer. There are some decent shots, and aside from the choice of narration he givese a solid look to the picture.