Who knew a film about porn could be one of the most touching of the year? Don’t worry, Kevin Smith’s new comedy still raises the offensive bar in more than one way. Starring Seth Rogen (Pineapple Express, Knocked Up) and Elizabeth Banks (W, Definitely, Maybe) as Zach and Miri, childhood friends turned roommates. Strapped for cash with no where else to turn they decide to make a porn. Bringing the most laughs is Craig Robinson (Pineapple Express, “The Office”) who plays Delaney, Zach’s coffee shop co-worker and disgruntled husband. Brandon Routh, who brings more life to his cameo than he did in all of Superman Returns, is hilarious as Justin Long’s (Dodgeball, Die Hard 4) gay porn co-star and lover. The two of them are the catalyst for getting the idea of a porn in Zach’s head when the meet at a high school reunion.
The film hits its stride when Zach and Miri raise the question of sex getting in the way of their 20-year friendship. The laughs are heavy and constant, but the romantic dynamic between the two characters is what really keeps the film going. The movie still has its plentiful share of vulgar, even obscene dialogue. I was surprised at the mother and young teenage son sitting to the right of me during this preview screening, as this was easily the hardest R in terms of sexual content and dialogue I have seen. There isn’t a sexual subject that goes unmentioned. We are hit with anal, blowjob, gay porn, and even a queef joke, as seen in the trailer.
Don’t expect another Clerks, but this film sits proudly next to Chasing Amy as one of Smith’s better works. Make sure you don’t get up as the credits roll because there is an hilarious extended bonus scene. The film opens wide on Halloween.
8 out of 10