”To a night we’ll never remember, but the four of us will never forget.” This is the very quote that truly kicked off the blockbuster trilogy’s first adventure titled ”The Hangover” directed by an Oscar nominated director Todd Phillips, and written by Jon Lucas and Scott Moore. The movie skyrocketed to success winning a Golden Globe and grossing over $200 million. With Warner Bros behind it, the movie released on June 5th 2009, instantly striking the public as a fresh, raunchy, near trend setting comedy, soon gaining global renown. Which was no miracle or wonder, for the movie had truly raised the bar for all future comedy films, sadly also its own sequels.
I still remember seeing the movie for the first time only a few days after the initial release. Needless to say I was blown away, though at the time I was not keen on drinking nor partying. But as the movie lover I am, I was drawn to the straightforward humor, and grin worthy dialogue of the film. It was so different, in a nice way. It felt almost as if I was witnessing the dawn of a new era of ”Buddy films”. Well, maybe the film wasn’t that amazing, but not far from it. Now after over five years since the premiere of the film, re-watching it from a tad more mature perspective, truly gave value to some of the ”jokes for the older folks”. Also realizing how, after all these years, it still remains as one of the greatest comedies I’ve seen leaves me staggered. Then again, with a cast so lively and a director so skillful, a jackpot is hard to miss, and I’m not talking about slot machines 😉 *lol*
As most know, whether they acknowledge it or not, all great comedies are based on fundamental truths. And I believe most of us have experienced the rather unpleasant aftermath of alcohol. Even if not, most people still know about these things and are able to find a way to relate to them. Though the movie might do a bit of exaggerating in the plausible scenarios which could take place in a situation like the one in the movie, it still paints a vivid picture of what drugs mixed with alcohol might cost you. Then again, no one wants to see four dudes sitting in their hotel room, drinking water, puking and ordering pizza trying to solve the knots in their brain.
Overall, the execution of the film was on point, of course no movie is without sin, especially one based in Sin city… eheh ehheh, funny stuff. Anyways. Back on track now. The plot of the movie was written very well, to the bare eyed viewer it would almost seem like a simple comedy plot. But truly the complexity of the story’s development was merely hidden by a script full of gags to make you giggle so hard a single tear of joy could be seen in the eye of a true lover of comedy, by that I mean the Americans. (no offense though) All that aside, I do firmly believe that the true key to making a successful comedy, or any other film for that matter, is a non-forced, natural, pleasant off-screen chemistry between the cast and crew, that will then also reflect on-screen in the finished product.
As a closing point I must recap a little. The film in all of its aspects is great, a fun watch and a good laugh. Surely not for everyone’s taste. But I believe most in my age demographic will enjoy it. I was going to find something negative to say, but really can’t come up with anything, except the fact that the movie’s two sequels were a bit forced, funny, but maybe not necessary. But oh well, more money for the shareholders I guess!