Yes Man

Carl Allen (Carrey) has been living an isolated life ever since his wife left him. He turns down every chance to meet up with friends or advance up the career ladder and prefers to spend his evenings watching DVDs alone until he drops off to sleep. Then one day his friend recommends attending a self-help meeting, after which Carl vows to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity that comes his way for a year. This proves more difficult than Carl first imagined – will he be able to finally break free from his routine and face the wide world?

Carrey is on top form in this hilarious comedy, with just the right mix of witty dialogue and his usual brilliantly improvised slapstick. Although he has mellowed out since his Ace Ventura days, Carrey proves he can still deliver the laughs. He also takes the audience on an emotional journey that many of its members will be able to relate to, from being stuck in a rut to feeling full of life and without limits. Deschanel is warm and naturally charming as Carrey’s love interest, and Carrey’s onscreen friends support the lead well with a mix of caring advice and comedy moments.

Yes Man is a romcom with all the familiar elements but adds that extra twist with new ways for Carl to remove himself from his comfort zone. His drunken fight scene, a Harry Potter party, and an awkward encounter with a pensioner are just some of many amusing scenes the script boasts. Throw in Carrey and Deschanel’s great performances with a solid support cast and you’ve got a highly entertaining comedy. Yes Man goes recommended to anyone in search of a charming and witty tale with a great message that will strike a chord with most.

Julia Huntenburg