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Movie: Along Came Polly (2004)
Director: John Hamburg
Players: Ben Stiller, Jennifer Aniston, Philip Seymour Hoffman
Grade: B
What this film lacks is originality. Every single joke has been used before in some form or another in Ben Stiller’s previous movies. Stiller seems to always play the same role. He obviously has found a niche that works quite well in terms of bringing in revenue from the masses. He’s the normal guy that everyone can find some way to identify with, especially because something ridiculously melodramatic constantly happens to him. Jennifer Aniston isn’t stretching herself either. Her character as Polly is almost identical with her character Rachel on Friends. She uses the same humor and same reactions.
However, the reason movies like this succeed is that sometimes people just want to laugh, no matter if the joke is semi-stupid. This movie may not be original, but what comedy is? The subject matter for good jokes is severely limited, and Stiller has a wonderful knack for making fun of the most routine things (especially bodily fluids). Will you laugh at this movie? Definitely. Aniston, however unoriginal, is very charming and witty. You want to like her, and you will. If you are in the mood for a good laugh and mindless entertainment, Along Came Polly is worth a viewing!
Random movie quote: “Is this heaven? No, it’s Iowa!” – From Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner
Movie Vault Recommendation: In light of Valentine’s Day, I encourage you to watch “Sixteen Candles,” starring Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall. It’ll make you want to give your underwear to the next geek that walks by.
