This flick is probably the filthiest romantic comedy ever, and one of Kevin Smith's better movies. Zack & Miri has more laugh-out-loud moments than Mallrats & Clerks II combined. Right now, I'd have to rank Z&M up there on my list of Smith movies, probably at No. 3 behind Chasing Amy and Jersey Girl, and only slightly ahead of Dogma, but I'll probably have to watch it one more time before solidifying the final rankings.
The story was pretty straight forward and predictable, but the movie's strength relies on the performances. Rogen pretty much plays the same character that's made him a star, but the biggest surprise is Elizabeth Banks. She is able to combine the raunch with the heart, and she comes off as charming and cute. Banks is by far the best leading lady in any of Smith's films, but then again she doesn't have too much competition (I'd say Liv Tyler is the only person to give her a run for her money). Craig Robinson ("The Office") steals the show as Rogen's friend and producer, and the View Askew alums (Jason Mewes & Jeff Anderson) have some decent post-Jersey performances. There are some memorable cameos to boot. Let's just say I won't look at a Mac ad or Superman the same way again.
Overall, it was exactly what I expected. It was raunchy, obscene, but with some sweetness thrown in there for good measure. My only gripe is how people are going to say Smith is making an Apatow film, when we all know Smith was making these kind of flicks way before The 40 Year Old Virgin was a hit. But it was kind of cool seeing the two Comedy Families (View Askew & Apatow & Co.) meet on screen. Hopefully, this is the first of many collaborations.
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