Opening 3 Apr 2008
Directed by:
David Schwimmer
Writing credits:
Michael Ian Black, Simon Pegg
Principal actors:
Simon Pegg, Thandie Newton, Hank Azaria, Dylan Moran, Harish Patel
In spite of the off-putting title, this British comedy is inspiringly fun and educational. Dennis Doyle (Simon Pegg) leaves his pregnant bride Libby (Thandie Newton) in the lurch at the altar. Five years later he is not a boy, nor is he fat, nor does he run. He works as a security guard in a lingerie shop. Libby runs Libby’s Nice Buns bakery. One day, while visiting his illegitimate son Jake (Matthew Fenton), he realizes that Libby is moving forward with plans to marry Gordon (Dylan Moran) and give Jake a new father. Dennis still loves Libby, but believes he has no chance against hedge-fund-manager, marathon-runner Gordon. However, five years older and wiser, he decides finally to take a stand. He goes to spin class (cycling), signs up for the 26-mile Nike River Run marathon on the Thames River, sponsors a charity (erectile dysfunction sufferers’ union), and takes on two coaches (poker-playing friend Whit and Indian landlord Mr. G). The end is predictable, but still, it’s wonderful to see Dennis rise to the occasion, fall back in disappointments and rise again with new energy. Originally his excuse for disappearing was, “Spoiling your day was better than ruining your life,” due to a sense of inferiority and immaturity. Naturally, asshole Gordon has to be an American from Chicago. The soundtrack keeps a fast pace with lots of pop songs, old and new. This could almost be a real family film with its message: solve problems, don’t run, but it’s recommended for 13 and older due to the swearing and sexual innuendos. (Becky Tan)
