The Bar

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Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook, John Mahoney, Emily Blunt

Director: Peter Hedges

Writer(s): Pierce Gardner and Peter Hedges

Studio: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

Rating: PG-13

Official Bar Score: 

Going in I expected a comedic drama that focused on more subtle humor much in the same way another Carrell flick in “Little Miss Sunshine” did. What I got was a film that was much more a drama than a comedy, in fact the comedy is very few and far between with this film.

The story is about Dan Burns who is a columnist who focuses on relationships and he is also the father of three daughters. Since his wife passed away Dan has stayed away from the dating scene mostly focusing on his family life. That is until one day he finds a girl who instantly sweeps him off his feet, the only problem is she turns out to be in a relationship…with his brother.

The majority of the film takes place at a large family gathering and it becomes clear quick that Dan struggles with not only his daughters but also his family as you see the interactions between them all. Steve Carell as usual does a good job on portraying Dan as the acting isn’t a problem at all in this film as everyone seems to pull their own weight. Where the main trouble lies in this film is that it tries to put more on it’s plate than it can eat.

Does it want the audience to relate to the issues in a humorous manner? Does the film want the viewer to feel sad or feel sorry for Dan and his situation? Does the film want you to be against or for Dan pursuing his love interest?

It’s these questions that ultimately bring the film down a little in terms of viewing as you are left uncertain how you are supposed to feel. Then again maybe that’s the point as the main theme of the movie seems to be to expect life to surprise you. Still I feel as if the film was best suited to find one genre and stick to it.

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