Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Release Date: Jul 29, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 57 min.

Director: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa

Cast: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Marisa Tomei, Kevin Bacon, Jonah Bobo.

Love can be crazy. Love can be stupid. But most of all, love can be rewarding, as seen in what is conceivably the best romantic comedy of the year. “Crazy, Stupid, Love” is aptly titled for a reason, exploring the many facets of romance, from a fading marriage to a first infatuation. Whereas one is spiraling out of control, another is quickly igniting, and not one is none the wiser when it comes to figuring it all out. Boasting a terrific cast and a sharply written script, the film surpasses many rom-coms before it. But it’s the unpredictability that separates it from the rest of the pack, and makes for an entertaining look at an emotional rollercoaster that is ‘love.’ Steve Carell is as charming as ever, playing the soon-to-be-divorced guy who is forced to return to the dating ring. With the help of suave fast-talker, Ryan Gosling, he promptly becomes the lothario that every woman dreams and desires, including the crazy but hilarious Marisa Tomei. However, like all relationships, complications arise, and comical chaos ensues from start to finish. At times funny, and other times uproarious, there isn’t a moment when things get dull. And it’s oftentimes the quiet moments that beat out the dialogue in favor of sentiments. Similar to “Love Actually,” the film covers multiple story arcs, from one couple to the next. But while coming together serendipitously at the end, the jumps are sporadic and make for an uneven structure that is sometimes hard to follow. As one begins to hit its stride, another replaces it, and so forth. Yet, “Crazy, Stupid, Love” is wildly entertaining to say the least, and joins the best of its kind. Leave it to "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" to get it done right.

Rating: 4 stars