It's not unexpected to head into a Farrelly Brothers movie and be shocked. It's expected actually. Stuck On You is different, though. It's still shocking, yet it's not making every attempt to offend people at every turn. It's a somewhat different comedy from the same guys who made hair gel users think twice about the product. It actually shows restraint.
Let's be honest. There are countless ways to go overboard with the subject matter. Conjoined twins, in the hands of these guys, are certainly ripe to joke about. Instead, Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear play two characters that almost seem to enjoy being stuck together. They've made things work because they have to, and they accept it.
This of course leads to the comedic portions including a priceless scene in a football game (in which quarterback Kinnear passes to Damon because he's "open"). However, it does show the directors have held back, leaving most of these scenes to flashback, and focusing on the issues at hand. These issues include a career and, of course, a relationship (or two), where the conflicts start and the brothers begin questioning who they are.
It's easy to miss some of the humor here, told through quick lines, which makes repeat viewings a necessity. The rest of it is obvious, and at times forced. Some of the celebrity appearances is cringe-worthy and doesn't make any sense at all (Meryl Streep included).
That doesn't take much away from the film though, and its fast pace and non-stop jokes. The characters make fun of themselves and the movie, giving the film the light-hearted feel it needs to succeed. It makes a few nice side characters along the way too.
It's probably best to go into Stuck On You thinking it will be typical Farrelly material. That makes it all the more surprising and enjoyable. Sadly, there will be people turned off just because of who directed it, but it's worth a go. It's hard not find at least something entertaining in the end, and that's what it's all about anyway. (**** out of *****)
This clean transfer presents the film beautifully in 2.35:1 widescreen. Compression is minimal yet noticeable in a few scenes. Clarity is stunning most of the way through, and fine detail is superb. Usual pitfalls like grain are present, but subdued. (****)
Article comments
1 - Eric Berlin
I found this film to be surprisingly funny and breezy. It was a good time and a good story, mostly on the strength of superb acting from Damon and Kinnear.
You're slightly harsh toward the Farrelly bros, Matt -- they actually show restraint, as you say, in a number of films, including Outside Providence and Shallow Hal.
Nice job on this, Matt.
2 - Matt Paprocki
Oh, I agree they can be restrained. Never saw Providence, but Hal was a light one too. However, these guys and conjoined twins? You have to admit it doesn't seem like a combination that will end up tasteful.