Directed by: David Dobkin
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman, Leslie Mann
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Rated R
Running time: 112 minutes
Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars
It is really rare that a film is extremely funny, raunchy and also has a great heart. Most films have one of the three and fail on the others. “The Change-Up” is easily one of the funniest films of the year. The combo of Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman is a match made in heaven. I would like to point out that besides this being on hell of a funny film, it is also one of the raunchiest and dirtiest movies I have ever seen (in a good way). I found myself covering my face wondering how the hell did they get away with this throughout the film.
The story has been told before but never like this. Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) and Dave (Jason Bateman), are friends who believe that the other has a better life and while peeing into a magic fountain, they wish for each other’s life. Obviously it works and Mitch and Dave switch their bodies. Since they are two completely different people is why this film works so well. Mitch is a complete slack off that never sees anything through and Dave is a perfectionist that has big plans for his career. Mitch and Dave set out to make things right and get their lives back. Of course mucho hilarity ensues.
Jason Bateman is known for playing his typical role of guys like Dave in the film…but when he switches to the role of Mitch, it really shows a whole other side to him. He definitely steals the show and shines in this film. Would love to see him take on more roles like this. Ryan Reynolds is know for playing the action hero and slacker role and is perfect as the up tight perfectionist while playing the character of Dave. Don’t let me forget the women in the film, Leslie Mann and Olivia Wilde both are fun in this film. Leslie knocks it dead with her character and even shows some skin (bonus). Olivia Wilde is funny as the very forward co-worker of Dave, also shows some skin (double bonus).
I just want to say again how funny this film is and how over the top it is. When you think the shock and awe is done and the film is going to drop it adds some great heart and when it gets too much it just right back into the comedy. Perfect combination of the two. Make sure to leave the kids at home for this one definitely and get ready to laugh and enjoy this excellent film.
