There may not be
anyone else in Hollywood that has been producing solid comedies more than the
team of Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen. The two team-up again for the Stoner
comedy The Night Before and deliver a raunchy, albeit juvenile, holiday treat.
It certainly can’t stand up there with true holiday classics, but it’s one that
will get you into the holiday spirit in it’s own strange way.
Since 2001,
childhood friends Ethan (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), Isaac (Seth Rogen), and Chris
(Anthony Mackie) have gotten together every Christmas Eve to celebrate the
holidays with one wild night. As they grow older, Isaac begins a family with
his wife and Chris’ fame begins to rise, the trio realizes this holiday
tradition is coming to an end. Then a Christmas miracle occurs, allowing these
three men to have the night to end all nights, when they obtain tickets to the
ultimate Christmas party, The Nutcracker Ball.
As with most
comedies these days it takes a lot to make a film truly standout from the
numerous others in theaters throughout the year, but The Night Before finds a
way. With a rather un-unique premise, the film still manages to be fun through
its holiday setting and overall chemistry between the three main actors.
And that truly is
the best part of the film. The chemistry between Rogen, Mackie, and Levitt
makes it seem as though they have been friends throughout their whole lives and
truly have these traditions. Seth Rogen is the soon to be father who lets loose
for the night, becoming the stoner that Rogen plays so well. Mackie is the
football player who has recently obtained fame, making the struggle between
fame and friends a main focus point. And Levitt plays the guy who just doesn’t
want to grow up. His character really becomes the emotional center of the whole
film as he worries what his life will be as his friends move on.
The emotional
aspect of the film is the most surprising element throughout. Of course it should’ve been clear that was coming when the director was Jonathan Levine, who packed so
much emotional weight into a film like 50/50 that everyone should’ve known that
was coming here as well.
The biggest problem
I have with the film was its trailer giving away the funniest moments. But this
isn’t solely a singular problem, most comedies do this and it’s becoming more
and more frustrating every time. That
isn’t to say there aren’t surprises, like Michael Shannon’s role or even a
beautiful third act cameo that couldn’t be more perfect.
Overall The Night
Before is a good comedy with a underlying deeper story about friendship and
growing up. The main actors are great
together and feel real. The supporting characters make the scenes just that
much better, and the holiday atmosphere will make you that much eager for
December to roll around. (7.0/10)
So what did you think of The Night Before? Have you seen it and what's your favorite Seth Rogen Comedy? Comment below and let me know and as always return to I Am Sam for weekly reviews.
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