Film Reviews

Definitely, Maybe

• Rating:
• Director: Adam Brooks
• Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Abigail Breslin, Rachel Weisz, Elizabeth Banks
• Details: US / TBC (12A)

Will (Reynolds) is the soon-to-be-divorced father of Maya (Breslin), a bright young thing who is subjected to some ill-advised 'sexual education' at school, causing her to probe father for some awkward answers about his previous botched relationships: 'What's the man word for slut?'. He agrees to tell her about three episodes that had a profound effect on his life, finding a somewhat warped clarity in retrospect, and all are told through three vaguely intertwined narratives in engaging flashback form. The tagline of 'from the makers of Love, Actually' may put off your average viewer generally not inclined to watch such films, because the last time they did, the mediocrity that unfolded before their eyes almost brought on a personal cinematic apocalypse. Definitely, Maybe was never going to change the world, or even state a insightful declaration of anything in particular, nor does it set out to do any of those things. What it does set out to do is entertain its audience in a 'puppy dogs and ice cream' manner, pausing sporadically so you can take in the cuteness (and genuine ability) of the talented Breslin, and revel in a enormously capable cast doing exactly what was asked of them. Ryan Reynolds continues to grow in a commendable manner as an actor, becoming more understated with each performance. Sure, this role is hardly going to see a bestowing of plaudits come his way; but after thoroughly impressing in The Nines and Smokin' Aces, the fledgling leading man proves that his enviable range is growing, by equipping the affable and somewhat bland Will with enough charisma to carry the film. All three female supporting players give solid turns in underwritten roles, and each manage to give their respective character some depth - with Fischer standing out and proving again that she has a bright future ahead of her, once she picks the right roles (more Wedding Crashers and less Wedding Daze). Sure, it's all conventional enough fare, and there are moments where the obligatory cliches almost ram-raid proceedings; but Definitely, Maybe offers enough charm and talent to warrant a viewing - thanks mostly to a likeable cast.

Review by Mike Sheridan