This is 40 - C+

Rated R, 134 minutes


Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann

Likable but overlong “This is 40” shows the best and worst of Apatow

Apparently Judd Apatow has a lot to say about growing, evidenced in his engaging but overlong new comedy “This is 40,” a spinoff sequel from a couple you first saw in Apatow’s 2007 film “Knocked Up.” That couple, Pete (Paul Rudd), a music promoter, and Debbie (Leslie Mann, Apatow’s wife), a boutique owner, struggle with the financial pressures and stresses of growing older and raising two girls, Sadie and Charlotte (Maude and Iris Apatow, Apatow’s real-life children). Directed and written by Apatow, this is a true family affair, both personally and professionally, with Apatow’s immediate family appearing and many of his usual players, including Jason Segel, Melissa McCarthy, Chris O’Dowd, Robert Smigel and Annie Mumolo, who co-wrote “Bridesmaids” with Kristen Wiig. “This is 40” plays to Apatow’s comic strengths, namely his sharp writing and dialogue and his ability to mix personal and creative paths. On the downside, it’s uneven, sometimes shrill and at about 40 (sorry no pun intended) minutes too long, much too overextended for what it really is: a coming of age film for those past 40. With too many subplots and characters to keep track of and a middle act that meanders, Apatow could find value in finding ways to shut up or turn it off.  Still, the cast performs well, with Mann and Rudd both capable, likable actors who ground the film well.  John Lithgow and Albert Brooks are fun as the fathers, Megan Fox and Charlene Yi as boutique employees, and McCarthy is memorable in a good but overdone bit as a disgruntled parent. Those around this age should appreciate most of it, and “This is 40” provides some entertaining, if not, profane moments for couples and parents.  Would’ve been much more enjoyable if Apatow would learn how to tighten up the plot, because for a comedy such this, 2 hours and 14 minutes is simply too long and too redundant.

Wes’s Grade: C+