A solid script and the combined charms of lead actors Rachel McAdams and Jason Bateman result in one of the better comedies I’ve seen as of late.
While not entirely ROFL-inducing flick, John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein’s latest work is sure enough to elicit laughs and toy with the viewers’ minds at the same time.
That’s a good sign because it goes to show that “Game Night” is not a dumb movie.
Writer Mark Perez has done well in creating a narrative that is devoid of dull moments. Filled with funny quips and witty banters, the script, while highlighting the lead stars, provided enough spotlight for the equally talented supporting cast.
Game night afficionado couple Annie (McAdams) and Max (Bateman) attempts to outdo Brooks (Kyle Chandler), Max’s cooler brother in a mystery fun night that quickly turned sour.
What’s funny is that the characters (even the viewers) have no clear idea if what’s happening is real or not. It’s also during these scenes where the backstories of the other cast were introduced–from Kevin’s (Lamorne Morris) obsession to finding out which celebrity his wife slept with to Ryan (Billy Magnussen), the chronic dater who has this wild theory about what rich people do for fun.
But it’s Gary (Jesse Plemons), the ostracized neighbor who only wants to be invited at Game Nights, who stood out.
There’s always something funny in each scene, even in one of the more ridiculous break-in scenes in cinema history. I guess we can chalk it up to the cast.
I enjoyed how predictable and unpredictable the movie can get during specific moments. You’d appreciate how the filmmakers did not dumb it down for the audience.
The song choices are also noteworthy. Third Eye Blind!
Photo credits: Warner Bros. Pictures.
