This Is 40 Review: One Of The Best Comedies Of 2012

It’s no secret that I love Judd Apatow movies, and This Is 40 is no exception. Apatow wrote, directed, and produced this flick, and if you liked his previous films (Knocked Up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, The 40 Year Old Virgin, etc…), then this flick won’t disappoint.

This Is 40 revolves around Pete (Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann) – they’re both turning 40, though Debbie is in denial telling everyone she’s turning 38. The film highlights all of the joys of growing older in family life. From a lackluster sex life, to financial problems, to issues with their children (played by Apatow’s real life daughters – Maude and Iris Apatow) and technology, the film paints a fairly accurate, yet comical look at the stresses and tribulations of family life.

If you’re a Lost fan (like myself), it won’t be hard for you to identify your favorite part of this film. All of the jabs that the script makes at J.J. Abrams and Lost will make you want to high-five Apatow. Many of these genius moments are due to Maude and Iris Apatow who seem to have the same perfect comedic timing as their father.

There’s also some wonderful cameos by Jason Segel and Melissa McCarthy. The only thing missing? Cameos from Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen. I mean if it’s going to be a “sort-of sequel” to Knocked Up, it’d be nice to see these two for a scene as well. However, that’s the only bone I really have to pick with this movie. It’s a great script with a lot of heart paired with the perfect cast. It’s hard to go wrong.

There are only two reasons that you might not like this film… A) You’re watching Lost and you haven’t gotten to the last episode yet (This Is 40 does spoil the ending of the series – so beware… ), or B) You don’t like Apatow comedies. There’s a little bit something here for everyone, and if you’re looking for a movie to go see with your friends and/or loved ones on Christmas – this is a safe bet to please everyone that doesn’t want to sit through the brilliant – but three hour long – Hobbit.

Grade: A-
Review By: Emma Loggins