Review of The Switch (2010) by Alex B — 24 Apr 2011

"The Switch" is one of the funniest, most heartwarming, delightfully entertaining films I've had the pleasure of seeing in a very long time. It's an extremely touching story that will have you laughing at the start, and crying towards the end. But unlike most romantic comedies, "The Switch" won't leave that unsatisfied taste in your mouth craving a refund.

The cast in this film is beautifully orchestrated and perfectly directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck, who's only notable directing experience has been "Blades of Glory" in 2007. Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman play off each other radiantly to create a believable platonic relationship. I had also forgotten, until this film, how much Bateman reminds of Michael J. Fox with his acting style. So much so that even a few shots of Bateman essentially resembled Fox completely. Jeff Goldblum is wonderfully entertaining while bringing in the element of reason and Juliette Lewis, despite being one my most personally unlikable actresses, managed to keep her customary annoying self in check long enough for the credits to roll.

But the most unpredictable and astonishing actor in the film is Thomas Robinson, who plays six year old Sebastian. This little kid is so extremely talented, I only wish he was alive in 1999 so he could have played Anakin Skywalker in "Star Wars: Episode I, The Phantom Menace." Even Bateman, who's been an actor since he was ten, remarked during an interview that "Thomas was amazing at doing his work" and that for a six year old to learn his lines and then manipulate them while bringing in his own nuances was really lucky for the entire project.

Now the way the humor is presented throughout the film's entirety is literally impeccable. It's not only smart and witty and hilarious, but it's completely natural. It flows so seamlessly that I found myself remembering similar conversations I've had with friends and family, which in turn made the film that much more enjoyable.

Whether you have kids or simply wish you still were one, "The Switch" is this year's feel good film that plays with your funny bone and your heartstrings at the same time. It's most definitely worth watching and you'll certainly want to share that experience with loved ones.