Forgetting Sarah Marshall

I've seen this movie more times than I'd should ever admit to, but I've never reviewed it. I'd go so far as to call this barely-outta-the-gate flick a "cult classic" for the newer generations (in the same league as Knocked Up, Talladega Nights & Stepbrothers). The title aptly captures what the main character Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) is seeking to do throughout the film: forget his ex-girlfriend, Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell).

After a humiliating -- and hilarious -- break-up, Peter weeps, bemoans and holes up in his house. He decides to take a break from moping and his job as a composer of "dull and ominous tones" for a cheesy CSI-style crime show that Sarah just happens to be the star of. Unfortunately for the likable Peter, the suggestion of a vacation to Oahu, Hawaii (by step-brother Brian played by SNL breakout Bill Hader) happens to be the same place quintessential bitchy ex, Sarah and her new beau, the perverse English rocker, Aldous Snow are staying. Lucky for Peter, a compassionate hotel clerk, Rachel (Mila Kunis), decides to look out for him -- comping his room, inviting him to the local Luau, and forging a real connection with the lost soul that is Peter.

The movie's not nearly as sad as one would think - nor does it lose heart by making light of real emotion. The interaction between writer/star Jason Segel and Bill Hader is priceless (mostly via webcam), and the script is well-written. Aldous seems to have been specifically written for the eccentric and strange comic, Russell Brand. This introduced him to American audiences -- and how! The obvious comedy comes from continual bumping into his ex with her new man, and his constant reminder that he's at a romantic resort .... alone! Great cameo's by Paul Rudd, Jonah Hill, William Baldwin, Jason Bateman, and my favorites --- Jack McBrayer/Maria Thayer as the typical young, religious newlyweds on their honeymoon having difficulty navigating a little more than the island!

Do yourself a favor and rent the unrated version for the extra raunch, and a few extra scenes.