What Happens in Vegas (2008)

If this movie had ended after the first 45 minutes, I might have said it was one of my top three favorite romantic comedies. Unfortunately, the second half of the film did not hold up its end of the bargain, but overall, it was still funnier than I had expected. What Happens in Vegas revolves around two people who mistakenly marry each other in a drunken stupor and are about to separate when one of them hits a slot machine jackpot. In order for them to each get a split of the cash, a judge requires them to stay married for six month, and hi jinks ensue. As I said, the first half of this film is hilarious, in a Knocked Up-esque fashion. A lot of how enjoyable this film is has to do with two great supporting actors, Rob Corddry and Lake Bell. These two do a great job holding the film together, and their relationship is hysterical. I would expect to see these two, and in particular Lake Bell, in a lot quality cinema in the future. Also of note, Jason Sudeikis has a decent sized role in this film. It is not huge, and he is actually kind of a doocher, but even so, I love Jason Sudeikis. Ashton Kutcher and Cameron Diaz offer nothing new. They are typical A-list movie stars that are not actually particularly gifted actors, and will probably never do more than make B+ level romantic comedies. That said, they play their roles sufficiently, and do have a decent amount of on-screen chemistry. As the co-stars try to drive each other crazy, and eventually fall for each other, the movie becomes a lot less creative, but the first half of the film really was pretty creative. The end of What Happens in Vegas is predictable and works out very well for everyone, but I suppose it would not be a romantic comedy if it didn't. If I had to recommend a date movie that was not absolute misery for the guy, I would put Vegas on that list. I think my wife liked this film, but I do not think either of us would be interested in watching it again. I give What Happens in Vegas 2 and a half stars.