Dan In Real Life

This movie was much better than I expected. For a change, all the funny bits are NOT in the previews. In fact, the best parts are not.

This movie got to me on a different levels. First, as a father of daughters. Second, as former single guy. Third, one familiar with large funky families.

This story keeps moving and goes in directions you may not expect. It is smart. It is funny. It hurts to watch certain scenes if they are things that have happened to you or people you know.

Steve Carell may be one of the most recognizable faces on American screens big and little. He is so funny because his timing is perfect, and he represents the "everyman" in each of us. He is very smart and knows how to make us laugh. He is the ultimate straight man. And I mean that in the comic sense.

If the conversation between Carell's character and his daughters (any time he talks to all 3) does not bring a tightness to your throat or a tear to your eyes, I'll refund the cost of your rental. If you are a parent of teens, especially daughters, you will totally relate to these conversations. They are totally real.

Juliette Binoche is as charming and desirable as she is in Chocolat if not just a wee bit older. The meeting between her character and Carell's should appeal to the romantics of both genders. Brilliant.

Dane Cook is the same doofy character he played in "Good Luck Chuck", but this time it actually works.

The relationships in this family should ring true with anyone who grew up in a big family.

Dianne Wiest and John Mahoney are perfect as the heads of this very interesting bunch of adults and their kids.

Watch this movie with someone who will play word games with you to see who does dishes.