Something's Gotta Give

Jack Nicholson stars as Harry, a womanising 63 year old who never dates women over 30. At the opening of the film he is enjoying a weekend away with his young girlfriend at her mother's beach house in the Hamptons. Their romantic plans begin to go awry when her divorced playwright mother Erica (Diane Keaton) and aunt also arrive on the scene. Erica is understandably unimpressed that her daughter is dating a renowned bachelor more than twice her age leading to some awkward moments. Things become even worse when Harry suffers a heart attack...

He finds himself being cared for by Erica and local doctor Julian (Keanu Reeves). Unable to travel until he recovers, Harry is left living alone with Erica. This is a situation that pleases neither of them! Obviously they hate one another initially but, despite their differences, they are drawn together as time passes.

Harry’s relationship with Erica’s daughter is an initial obstacle to their blossoming romance. Things are further complicated by Erica’s relationship with Harry’s handsome, young doctor who is a big fan of her work and is instantly attracted to her.

Writer and director Nancy Meyers knows how to make crowd pleasing movies and this film is no exception. Although it has to be said that some of the love triangles in the film do seem somewhat unlikely! Romance between the, ahem, more mature is not often made the subject of a romantic comedy and many of the laughs are generated as a result of this casting.

So, it may be predictable and formulaic but what did you expect from a romantic comedy? Having said that, there are enough twists and turns to keep things interesting and there are some truly hilarious moments. The film boasts a very strong cast and doesn’t disappoint, although some of the minor characters do seem a little under used. Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson provide particularly good performances in the lead roles.

If you’re looking for a fun, feel good movie then you can’t go too far wrong with this one.

Paul Morris