5 Reasons You Should See "This Is 40"

Michelle Douvris ’16 / Emertainment Monthly Staff

Judd Apatow’s new comedy This is 40 debuted to a disappointing 12 million dollars this past weekend. But here’s why you should be buying a ticket despite its lackluster performance at the box office.
5. It’s the “sort-of-sequel” to Knocked Up
 The film gives us an inside look at two hilarious characters from the 2007 hit comedy. We finally get to know Allison’s sister Debbie and her husband Pete and dive deeper into their relationship as they approach 40.
4. It’s a family affair
Director Judd Apatow couldn’t have made a better decision by casting his wife and two daughters in this movie. Maude and Iris Apatow have grown quite a bit since Knocked Up and their sisterly dynamic is even funnier the second time around. And Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd’s comedic chops are in full force, expertly finding the funny moments in every-day household situations.
3. The supporting cast is really on their game
Albert Brooks is a scene-stealer as Paul Rudd’s father who is unafraid to speak his mind. Megan Fox plays well off of Leslie Mann, while Melissa McCarthy and Chris O’Dowd from Bridesmaids also bring their talents to the table with small but funny roles. Jason Segel gets laughs as a physical trainer who fights for Megan Fox’s affections and Charlyne Yi’s character adds a comical little plot twist.
 2. It’s refreshingly honest
The great thing about this film is that is doesn’t just skim the surface. It really explores the ups and downs of married life and aging in an honest way. Mann and Rudd are able to shape these characters so that they aren’t just a one-dimensional couple. And Apatow is able to get emotional performances from them so that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill R-rated comedy.
1. You’ll laugh. A lot.
After making a whole slew of commercially successful comedies, Judd Apatow definitely knows how to make people laugh. Whether it be at Melissa McCarthy’s verbal antics, Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd’s much-needed couple’s getaway, Albert Brooks’ frenzied life as an older father of young triplet boys, or the Apatow sisters bickering about Lost, chances are you’ll lose it at least once. So when you’re feeling stressed out from the holidays or just want to see a good comedy amidst all the dramas out for awards season, go see This is 40.