Full Review: Larry Crowne

Grade: A-

Larry Crowne is a middle-aged Navy veteran who has been working at a retail store for years. One day, he is let go because management feels that since he never went to college, there is no reason to keep him there. After failing to find a job anywhere else, Larry decides to enroll in speech and economics classes at a local community college. There he meets Talia, a girl with a bit of a free spirit who invites him to join her scooter “gang” and begins to change his style and outlook on life. He also meets Mercedes Tainot, who teaches the speech class he’s in and begins to form a relationship with.

Larry Crowne is a fun and light-hearted comedy about dealing with being middle aged, in a way. I was surprised to see so many people don’t like this movie because I found it very entertaining and really funny too. The movie is co-written, directed and stars Tom Hanks (The Da Vinci Code, Charlie Wilson’s War) who did a great job on all counts. The movie’s writing is fun and full of wit that will keep you laughing and interested throughout the whole movie. The movie has a great summery look to it that is fun to watch. Hanks’ portrayal of the titular character is great and full of charisma. Larry Crowne is hopelessly optimistic and full of charm. The man seems to be able to befriend anybody.

The movie also stars Julia Roberts (Eat Pray Love, Duplicity) as Mercedes Tainot, who teaches the speech class at the community college. I usually don’t like Roberts, but I found her to be really good and very entertaining in this movie. Gugu Mbatha-Raw (TV’s Undercovers) plays the role of Talia, a very spirited girl who teaches Larry to be a little more hip. She was great in this movie, really fun to watch and just full of energy. I loved her character and I loved her acting in this movie, I really hope to see more from her soon. The movie also features George Takei, Wilmer Valderrama, Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, Pam Grier, Bryan Cranston and so many more.

Larry Crowne is a great light-hearted summer comedy that, even though it is aimed at the middle-aged crowd, I believe it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This movie really surprised me and turned out to be a lot of fun.

Great Quote: “They are called smart phones but only dummies use them in my class.”