Ghosts of Girlfriends Past

When Connor Mead, famous photographer and legendary ladies’ man, returns home for his brother’s wedding, he gets more than he bargained for. Perfectly nonchalant about breaking up with multiple women simultaneously via webcam, Connor’s playboy attitude leads him to make a drunken speech about the non-existence of love at the wedding rehearsal, which doesn’t go down well with either his brother or Connor’s childhood sweetheart, Jenny Perrotti, the only girl he ever let see through his vain façade. Just when it looks like Connor has ruined the big day, the ghost of his long-dead Uncle Wayne turns up in the bathroom and suggests all is not lost. Uncle Wayne, whose lothario lifestyle inspired has Connor to follow in his footsteps, has a message for Connor, which he communicates by sending Connor on a trip through his romantic entanglements, past present and future. The only question which remains is whether Connor can find, and keep, the love of his life, second time around.

Whilst it is no A Christmas Carol (on which it is very loosely based), this rom-com does what it says on the tin. Matthew McConaughey surprises by playing up to his rather cheesy and sleazy reputation when showing the worst sides of Connor’s character. He is ably supported by Jennifer Garner, who imbues Jenny with a warmth that almost makes you question why on earth she would consider the likes of Connor. The star of the show though, is Michael Douglas who clearly takes immense glee in his Hugh Hefner-like role, resplendent in cravat and sunglasses. Although not life-changing, the film achieves what it sets out to be: fun and undemanding, and a perfect antidote to those chilly autumn evenings.

Kathryn Chase