ViewGuide

Created Dec 13, 2011 02:47PM PST • Edited Dec 13, 2011 02:47PM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   OK 2.5

   A quirky and somewhat dark comedy about an astronomer who follows his former fiancee to NYC to stalk her. Yes, the premise of the movie is about stalking former love.

   Matthew Broderick plays Sam, who is reeling form getting a ‘Dear John’ letter from his true love, Linda (Kelly Preston). Sam travels to NY, only to find his new love living with Anton (Tcheky Karyo), a Frenchman who seems to have Linda’s affection firmly in hand. Sam befriends Maggie (Meg Ryan), Anton’s ex, and both proceed to stalk the unaware couple.

   While the subject matter of stalking is frightening, Broderick and Ryan manage to keep the film a bit upbeat with quirky humor, including attempts to embarrass Anton. Their natural comedic talent help keep the focus on stalking from becoming too uncomfortable.

   Ryan and Broderick both have great successes to their name. This won’t rate among the best, but it does serve as some nice diversion. Comfort food for the cinematic soul.

4. Acting

   OK 2.5

5. Male Stars OK 2.5

   Broderick is unremarkable, but still likeable, as the forlorned man trying to win the girl back. It’s an awkward story to be sure, and his ‘boy-next-store’ personality softens the stalking element.

6. Female Stars Good 3.0

   Meg Ryan brings a sultry and mischievous edge to her role.

7. Female Costars OK 2.5

8. Male Costars Good 3.0

   Little-known actor Karyo does a good job as the exotic new love interest.

10. Film

    OK 2.5

11. Direction OK 2.5

12. Play OK 2.5

    Enough plot twists to keep your interest.

13. Music OK 2.5

14. Visuals Good 3.0

    Interesting use of a telescopic spying device makes the visuals more intriguing and become an important part of the story. You watch, but feel detached.

15. Content

16. Edge

    Risqué 2.0

17. Sex Titillating 2.5

    No nudity, but plenty of underwear shots and moaning.

18. Violence Fierce 1.9

19. Rudeness Salty 1.7

21. Reality

    Glib 1.6

22. Circumstantial Surreal 2.7

    While stalking is a serious problem, the method and measures used in this film are bizarre.

23. Biological Natural 1.0

24. Physical Glib 1.2