So Over The Hangover?

The Hangover.

Did it live up to expectations? For me, personally, no. 

If the humour is your kinda thing, then I can understand how this movie completely hits the spot. In a sense, the movie got the same reception as Inception; this concept had never been materialised into a film before, and it left audiences wondering why the hell not. And due to the highly original script and concept, the film was SO hyped up, sales soared, and both examples became a commercial success.

I watched The Hangover for the first time yesterday (I know, crazy right?). To be honest, I didn’t want to see it before mainly because the concept pissed me off – I hate it when my friends drink like crazy people and then blame their intoxication for whatever stupidity may occur. So I felt like had I seen it earlier, I would have just watched through with an expressionless distaste, muttering “you shouldn’t have had that much to drink, then” every time misfortune hit the three protagonists. After hearing about its worldwide success I felt like I should give it a chance and I was ready for the comedy.

Which didn’t happen for me.

I mean, yeah there were some scenes that were hilarious (the tiger in the back of the car, Mike Tyson, Stu marrying the stripper all spring to mind). These scenes made me truly laugh out loud. But other supposedly ‘hilarious moments’ were SO inappropriate that I was pretty close to turning the movie off. I mean, pretending the baby is masturbating? really??

In addition, I’m not a massive fan of swearing unless the situation really calls for it… and the majority of the time, Phil’s situation didn’t call for it.

I have to give credit where credit is deserved; the characters and their portrayal were absolutely brilliant. Right from the get-go, one understands exactly what each character is like, whether they’re going to grow and love them, as the movie progresses. I felt this was certainly the case for Stu and Alan, as I definitely understood their roles in the movie. I particularly loved Stu, as his personality matched my own. He came across as sensitive and loving, but to the extent that he would do anything to keep his girlfriend Melissa safe from harm (the harm being her hurt feelings upon discovering the truth). This really hit home, as I have the tendency to do the same thing with my parents. And after the movie ended, I realised I really shouldn’t have to.

Phil was an interesting character for me. I know when I started watching the film, I thought he was a dick. He came across rude and arrogant, too up himself to understand or appreciate the life he had or the friends he was with. But as the movie progressed, his true character really emerged and shone. I decided that his blunt honesty could be categorised as douchery, but instead it was much needed in order for the other two to develop. Everyone needs a friend who will always, ALWAYS tell the truth, regardless of the consequences. Phil was that friend to the other protagonists in the film, and for that, I grew to really appreciate him. I also liked his calm demeanour in times of trouble, as this is another quality one must find in a friend. I have to say I’m fortunate enough to know people with the same personality, and their relaxed attitude is always reassuring when I’m stressing out.  

And one more thing: the ending.

Or near-ending, I guess. The argument between Melissa and Stu was such an uplifting moment for Phil, Alan, Doug… and myself haha XD I really believed it was a strong turning point for Stu, and it always acts as a bonus when the audience member is sitting in her seat fist-pumping a character’s success! I think it definitely acted as a definitive moment in the film, as it portrayed Stu’s development through the whole charade of hangovers and hardships. And so suits the phrase “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

I never thought I’d say this, but I really hope Stu gets with the stripper. 

Overall rating: 6/10.

I would probably watch it again, but not all the way through. As a comedy, it really wasn’t my thing. As a mystery ‘whodunit’ kinda movie, it was pretty good. However, I think it was the characters themselves that earned 5 of those 6 points. So kudos to the fine actors for such a convincing and impressive job.