Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)
Cal Weaver is living the American dream. He has a good job, a beautiful house, great children and a beautiful wife, named Emily. Cal's seemingly perfect life unravels, however, when he learns that Emily has been unfaithful and wants a divorce. Over 40 and suddenly single, Cal is adrift in the fickle world of dating. Enter, Jacob Palmer, a self-styled player who takes Cal under his wing and teaches him how to be a hit with the ladies.
Details
Budget
$50,000,000
Rating
7/10 (8671 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Warner Bros. Pictures
About Crazy, Stupid, Love.
In "Crazy, Stupid, Love.", Cal Weaver's seemingly stable life as a family man is upended when his wife, Emily, asks for a divorce. Faced with a sudden return to single life in his 40s, Cal receives an unexpected makeover and dating advice from Jacob Palmer, a younger womanizer. The film balances its comedic elements with the more dramatic aspects of divorce, midlife crisis, and navigating new relationships.
While the story explores traditional romantic comedy scenarios, it also attempts to inject fresh perspectives on love and connection. The intertwining relationships of the characters, from Cal's struggles to his children's burgeoning romances, contribute to a narrative that moves beyond simple romantic entanglements. It aims to depict various facets of love and family dynamics, from initial attraction to long-term commitment and the challenges within.
The film touches on themes of friendship, marriage crisis, and the complexities of finding love at different life stages. It combines humor with moments of genuine emotional conflict, characteristic of its blend of comedy, drama, and romance. The story ultimately explores how individuals redefine their lives and relationships after significant upheaval.
Why you might be searching for Crazy, Stupid, Love.
People often search for "Crazy, Stupid, Love." because of its ensemble cast and the memorable scene where Ryan Gosling's character demonstrates his dating techniques. The film's blend of humor and heartfelt moments about divorce and new relationships also makes it stand out.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer found the comedy to be strong, following typical narrative arcs but incorporating unexpected twists.
Read the full reviewA reviewer noted that the film produced conflicting emotions due to its inconsistent values, particularly regarding its portrayal of relationships, but appreciated the unique friendship between Cal and Jacob, the surprising plot developments, and Cal's enduring love for his family.
Read the full reviewAnother viewer found the movie highly entertaining and relatable to their own breakup experience, excluding a specific plot point involving a babysitter.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
While not a true story, screenwriter Dan Fogelman based the film's screenplay on his own experiences and wrote the role of Cal with Steve Carell in mind. The script was then acquired by Warner Bros. in December 2009 for $2.5 million, and Carell came aboard the project within a week of reading it, with filming beginning in January 2010.
At Robbie's 8th-grade graduation, Robbie gives a pessimistic speech, leading Cal to interrupt and recount his own courtship with Emily, stating he'll never give up on her, which renews Robbie's faith in love. After the ceremony, Cal gives his blessing to Jacob and Hannah's relationship. The movie ends with Jessica giving Robbie her nude photos, and Robbie optimistically watching Cal and Emily talking.
*Crazy, Stupid, Love.* generally received positive reviews, with an 80% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised its talented cast and unabashed sweetness, while some acknowledged that it doesn't always live up to the "crazy" or "stupid" parts of its title. The film was also a box office success, grossing over $145 million worldwide against a $50 million budget.