In my entire history of film watching, the very talented Mr. Seth Rogen has only ever let me down one time. I’m of course speaking in terms of his involvement in a movie that turned out to be quite the disappointment. The really great news today though, is this: That absolute letdown of a movie  I’m referring to is definitely not director Jonathan Levine’s latest comedy / romance, Long Shot.

Starring Rogen, Charlize Theron, Alexander Skarsgård and O’Shea Jackson Jr., Long Shot is a film I was always going to see because the cast are among my favourite filmmakers. I just wasn’t sure how the finished product would turn out, considering the somewhat unexpected pairing of Rogen and Theron in a story about an unemployed journalist who decides to pursue his childhood crush. Particularly considering that his crush just happens to be one of the world’s most powerful and unattainable women. 

My initial lack of confidence probably also had something to do with the trailer somehow not being able to truly convey – for me at least, just how the movie was going to play. Luckily, to my very pleasant surprise, I had a great time. The dialogue, pace, story and tone all added up to a beautifully choreographed film that delighted me. I liked it so much it almost made me feel as happy as I was when I first discovered the magic that is Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008).

In terms of what I liked a little less, I vaguely recall the laughs slowing down a tad past the half way point, but that’s barely a complaint now, is it? The bond between Jackson Jr. and Rogen’s characters, Skarsgård’s Prime Minister character, the role played by Andy Serkis and of course ‘Queen Theron;’ all just wonderful. 

Definitely, definitely watch Long Shot if you haven’t already. I certainly won’t be forgetting all the elements it got just right, any time soon.

Happy Film Loving

G