Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

When people like Judd Apatow, Seth Rogen, Bill Hader and Jason Segel are involved with the production of a comedy you know you're in for a good laugh. That is the reason that I decided to actually spend the money to go out and see Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and I wasn't disappointed.

Jason Segel (who also wrote the film) stars as Peter Bretter, a musician who writes the score for the crime drama Crime Scene (which is a spoof on CSI: Miami). Peter is also dating the sexy star of the program, Sarah Marshall (played by the beautiful Kristen Bell). However it's when Sarah breaks up with Peter that the film really starts.

Peter has a very difficult time dealing with the break-up, he spends most of his time wallowing in self-pity and going out and picking up random girls for one-night stands. The quick flings do nothing to ease his pain, so taking the advice from his stepbrother Brian (Bill Hader) he takes a vacation to Hawaii to get away from it all. Unfortunately upon his arrival in Hawaii Peter realizes that not only is Sarah also vacationing in Hawaii with her new lover the rocker Aldus Snow (played by Russell Brand), but they are staying in the same resort.

Peter spends the first few days continuing his self-sorrow from back in LA, but with some encouragement from Brian he makes some friends with the staff of the resort, and becomes romantically interested in the gorgeous Rachel Jansen (Mila Kunis). He begins courting her, and before long she reciprocates the feelings and they begin a relationship.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall is another hilarious film from the Apatow boys, and it really showcases new writer Jason Segel's great comedic talent. Although it is at times a bit raunchy, this is not a dirty film. All the sex scenes are put in there for comedic relief and are not particularly graphic. There is a scene where Peter and Rachel are engaging in the act of coitus, and Sarah overhears and becomes jealous and starts a competition for who can scream louder.

Mila Kunis, who previously has been known for her roles on That 70's Show and Family Guy, really has a breakout performance in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It's a role that really lets her display her talent, and she shines so much I am sure that she will be getting a lot more decent roles in the future. It’s really a fantastic transition from the small screen to features.

Russell Brand is also magnificent as the rock star Aldus Snow. He brings in some great physical comedy, and while all the other performances are great they lack the physicality that Brand brings to the screen. In one scene he is teaching a young newlywed how to please his wife that will have you rolling on the floor.

I would highly recommend Forgetting Sarah Marshall for anyone that can appreciate a good comedy. With great performances and even better writing Forgetting Sarah Marshall comes in as the best comedy of the year so far. Richard Roeper said that it is one of the top 50 comedies of all time, and I'm not sure I would go that far but it's close. Definitely worth seeing. Overall 4.0/4 Stars Grade = A-

I would highly recommend Forgetting Sarah Marshall to anyone who can enjoy a good comedy. With great writing, and fantastic performances