Review of Celeste & Jesse Forever (2012) by Vivi M — 21 Jul 2012

Breakups suck, no matter how much you try to make them not. The irony is that everyone already knows that, and it's especially hit home at the movies and on TV. So why then do we need to watch a film like Celeste & Jesse Forever? The answer is simply because it's new. It features new faces, with new jokes, and new settings. Nevermind that it's almost a cliche; it's got that guy from SNL and that girl from The Office, and they're being funny, but also dramatic.

Sarcasm aside, it's easy to tear into this film, if for no other reason than its final thematic line is "Love is worth fighting for". And while that may be familiar territory, the set-up is pretty unbelievable. From the opening montage (and the title, for that matter), we soon understand that Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Andy Samberg) are pretty gag-inducing perfect for each other, and so it comes as a surprise that we soon realize they are getting a divorce in the most amicable way possible, by remaining best friends, continued cohabitation, and the occasional peck and "I love you" thrown in.

But things get real when Jesse starts seeing someone else and soon is blindsided with impending fatherhood. This shocks Celeste into realizing that she's taken her friendship, and her marriage for that matter, for granted. Thus the dance of "will they, won't they" begins as the rote, contrived, and almost dull second act takes hold.

Almost dull, since there is certainly a draw in the stars and their charm. Samberg is funny, but can't shirk his goofy persona, no matter how mopey he looks. But the real kicker here is Jones, who also co-wrote the script. And while its certainly not a good script, Jones gives herself the opportunity to shine as the controlling gal who looses control only to find strength in herself. And while she doesn't get her groove back, per se, its the kind of role that shows Jones has emotional range and the ability to have an audience root for her.

That's about all the praise I can muster for this romantic comedy that is short of romance and more amusing than comedic. Some may see the film as a twist on the formula, but it feels too clever for its own good; not quite a parody of rom-coms, but not quite an honest one either. That may be a fault of director Lee Krieger, who doesn't seem to infuse much into the film, and lets the camera just role on Samberg and Jones. Even quirky costars Elijiah Wood, Ema Roberts, and Chris Messina (the later less quirky and more romantic foil) can't save the show, but they certainly add some nice distractions.

In the end, Celeste & Jesse Forever doesn't do much to set itself apart, despite it's best efforts. There are minor draws, particularly with the cast, but it ultimately is forgettable. Still, it may prove to be a springboard for Jones to grow, and at least Samberg isn't going the route of Adam Sandler (at least, not with this filmâ?¦).