It stars Simon Pegg as Danny, a somewhat overweight, lowlife of a man who has major trouble with commitment - running away from his pregnant would-be bride, Libby, moments before the wedding. He is trying to re-spark the relationship with his ex-fiance, when, surprise surprise, he finds out that she has taken on a new lover - the very wealthy and in-shape Whit (played by Hank Azaria). Danny decides to prove that he has matured enough to commit by running in the same marathon as Whit.
Where I feel the movie gains its real charm, though, is through its minor characters and (albiet weak) subplots. Danny and Whit are vying for the affection of both Libby and her son - Danny with humor and Whit with an endless supply of money (and all the things money can buy). Danny's best friend Gordon (Dylan Moran) has a gambling problem, but has managed to wager his entire debt to the underworld on whether Danny can complete the marathon. The sultry daughter of Danny's landlord wagers with Danny that she will forgive all of his past-due rent if he can complete the race, but that she'll evict him immediately if he doesn't. But his kind landlord takes it upon himself to become Danny's "assistant coach" and motivate his training with a swift spatula in the rear-end.
Have I mentioned that this little heartwarmer was directed by non-other than Ross from "Friends"? That's right - this film was the big-screen directorial debut for David Schwimmer. The screenplay was also written in-house (at least, collaboratively) by Simon Pegg.
Most of the people involved in this movie have been a part of bigger and better things. This movie doesn't necessarily mark a low-point in their careers. More of a side project that became overshadowed by everything else surrounding it.
No comments:
Post a Comment