“GREAT FOR A DATE”
Starring: Drew Barrymore, Justin Long, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis and Christina Applegate
Directed by: Nanette Burstein
MPAA Rating: R for sexual content including dialogue, language throughout, some drug use and brief nudity.
Genre: Comedy
Running time: 1 hr. 43 min.
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
By John Delia
The cute little film Going The Distance has a lot going for it, a good cast, able direction and an interesting storyline. It’s an awesome date film and one the guys will like as well. Take a peek at a charming film that really goes a long way to please.
During a chance meeting in New York, Erin (Drew Barrymore), a quick-witted woman meets Garrett (Justin Long) a guy who has just been dumped. Together they spend six weeks of fun and bliss. Erin, however is due to move back to her sister’s home in San Francisco where she has a better possibility of a job. At the airport just before Erin boards the plane the two decide on a long distance relationship. Erin and Garrett find it hard going, even the texting, sexting and phone sex won’t do. When friends and family interfere, the relationship gets strained.
I enjoy the chemistry between Barrymore and Long as the couple that has to deal with being apart when togetherness is so important to each other. Barrymore’s smile can melt any heart and Long’s Garrett surly takes the plunge. It’s a match made in heaven and the two actors make the relationship believable and enjoyable to watch.
Able direction by Nanette Burstein (The Kid Stays in the Picture) keeps the storyline moving at a fast pace. Sure we have seen similar stories about splitting up couples only to reunite, but Burstein makes this one funny, sincere and very sexy. Her ability to keep the sparks flying between the two actors is admirable. Adding great support that includes comedians Christina Appelgate and Jason Sudeikis is a smart move as she uses them just enough to keep Erin and Garrett’s long-distance relationship fragile and hard to manage.
The film is rated R for sexual content including dialogue, language throughout, some drug use and brief nudity.
FINAL ANALYSIS:Â A fun date film with great characters. (3.5 of 5)