Film Review: A Guy Thing (2003)
“Toxic masculinity” is phenomenon that Hollywood two decades ago tried to deal with through innocent lampooning rather than brutal extermination modern “wokesters” advocate today. An example of older, more kinder and gentler, treatment can be found in A Guy Thing, 2003 romantic comedy directed by Chris Koch.
The plot takes place in Seattle and the protagonist is Paul Morse (played by Jason Lee), an employee of advertising firm. He is about to get married to his fiancee Karen Cooper (played by Selma Blair) and before that, in line with tradition, goes with his friends to bachelor party. He comes to tiki bar where meets a charming dancer named Becky Jackson (played by Julia Stiles). Paul, who had few drinks too many, wakes up next morning with Becky on the bed next to him. Convinced that they have slept together, he rushes Becky out of apartment and is very keen not to tell anyone about the event, especially his father-in-law Ken (played by James Brolin) who also happens to be his boss. But circumstances conspire against Paul because he first learns that Becky is actually Karen’s cousin and, later, that she has possessive ex boyfriend Ray Donovan (played by Lochlyn Munro), who also happens to be a policeman. Convinced that Paul has relationship with Becky, Ray begins campaign of intimidation against him, which includes planting false evidence that could land him in jail. Paul must use all of his ingenuity and even rely on Becky’s help to get himself out of trouble before the actual wedding.
Team of screenwriters begind A Guy Thing probably had an idea to make romantic comedy in which presumed acceptance of males’ inherently polygamous nature (or “a guy thing”) should be confronted with protagonist’s attempt to do the right thing and remain loyal to his fiance. This film isn’t the first to try using this concept, and the lack of originality in this case isn’t helped with abysmal quality of humour that, like so many subpar Hollywood comedies, relies too much on various bodily functions. Things aren’t much better with plot with too many convenient coincidences and undeveloped characters, and become even worse during predictably corny wedding and easy “copout” ending during with protagonist realises that he was actually in love with the wrong girl. The result is terribly disappointing film, which is made watchable only by talented and energetic cast, especially Selma Blair and charming Julia Stiles. Their efforts, however, weren’t enough to rescue A Guy Thing from sinking into oblivion.
RATING: 3/10 (+)
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