While tabbed as the next Hangover, Todd Philips' Due Date is anything but a classic work of comedic genius. Filled with slapstick humor and witty dialogue, the film occasionally finds itself at the mercy of the one thing it can never escape - itself. Yet somehow I still left the theater smiling, knowing that the last hour-and-a-half had been spent witnessing a joyous cross-country adventure; one that I could only hope to experience for myself one day.
In a nutshell Zach Galifianakis makes this movie. Sure Robert Downey Jr. adds his personality, generating occasional chuckles in the process; but, for all intents and purposes, this movie is all Zack. Full of comedic undertones and youthful innocence, the recent breakout comedic gem rises to the occasion and delivers arguably one of the best performances of his young career. (Note that I did say arguably.)
Jamie Foxx and Michelle Monaghan are hardly in the film at all, and for once that is a good thing. Downey Jr. and Galifianakis share a rare bond for two highly prolific actors, working brilliantly together as they prove that in some weird instances, opposites simply don't attract.
I have rarely laughed as hard as I did in this film. I'm not saying it is great, or that it is anything near what The Hangover achieved just over a year ago; however, it is definitely worth checking out and would make for the perfect group night flick as it is sure to entertain members of both sexes.
