Directed by: Ken Kwapis

Rated PG-13 for sexual content and brief strong language.

Courtesy of  MPAA ratings at  www.mpaa.org

If you’re searching out that heart warming, romantic, whimsical, touching love story, perfect for a Valentine’s Day weekend or a special time with your significant other, go see The Pink Panther, or maybe, Hotel for Dogs.  No my friends, there’s no sparing your feelings in this movie.  Based on the best selling book by the same name, this in depth look at the underbelly of dating dos and don’ts is definitely good for the relationally challenged; however, not for the hopeless romantic, and dare I say, the faint of heart. 

This storyline pivots around five women’s relationships and run-ins with the opposite sex.  One bound by the misconception that chivalry is not dead, (Ginnifer Goodwin, Mona Lisa Smile) one lost in the “technology” of dating (Drew Barrymore, 50 First Dates, Fever Pitch), one struggling in her marriage (Jennifer Connelly, The Hulk, A Beautiful Mind), one hoping to get married (Jennifer Aniston, The Break Up), and one yet undecided (Scarlet Johansen, The Other Boylen Girl, The Island).  Playing opposite these leading ladies, you’ll find Ben Affleck (Good Will Hunting, Pearl Harbor) and Bradley Cooper (Wedding Crashers). When a rendezvous between Gigi (Goodwin) and Coner Barry (Kevin Connelly, The Notebook) doesn’t go as she plans (i.e. he doesn’t call) Alex, played by Justin Long (Dodgeball) provides most of the useful advice to say that he is or is not that into you-or her.  Given Alex’s words of wisdom, we see throughout the rest of the movie why the other relationships thrive or fail.  Overall, like the book, these pearls of wisdom try to help men and women understand why the opposite sex is so psychotic.  There are plenty of funny and notable anecdotes that almost everyone can relate to, that will offer up a chuckle and a good ol’ fashioned Homer Simpson “DOH!” in us all. 

If you are single with nothing to do for the weekend, round up your posse and go see this movie. And if you’re feeling adventurous, spring for the second mortgage on your condo and get yourself some popcorn!