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Dave Buznik (Adam Sandler), a good natured geek, who works as an advertising executive for a
pet apparel, is falsely accused by a flight attendant of air rage, although he actually did not lose his temper. He is sentenced to undergo Anger Management therapy under Dr.
Buddy Rydell (Jack Nicholson), an outrageous therapist with an unorthodox method of curing his patients. Initially, Dave hopes that after one session with Dr. Rydell, the
latter would sign his papers and release him from the therapy, but the opposite happens and Dr. Rydell moves in with Dave for Intensive Anger Management and the unconventional
treatment continues. Dave's therapy leads to several hilarious situations such as sleeping in one bed with a naked and flatulent Dr. Rydell, overcoming his homophobia by
picking-up a transvestite, developing the guts to ask a girl out with a totally obnoxious line and confronting his childhood nemesis Arnie, the cause of his fear of public
display of affection. One of the scenes that stood-out was their rendition of the song from Westside Story while in a stationary car in the middle of a bridge during rush
hour.
Known as a serious actor, Jack Nicholson combines his brand of acting with comedy and teams up
with a great comedian like Adam Sandler and the result is riotous. The participation of special guests such as the former Mayor of New York Rudolph Giuliani and John McEnroe
to name a few, added to the film's rib-tickling scenes from start to finish. The director composed the shots fairly well, enhancing each scene.
According to Dr. Rydell, "Temper is the one thing you cannot get rid off by losing it." Even
the most patient man can lose his temper depending on the situation. Jesus Christ expressed anger when he ran after the vendors selling their wares inside the house of His
Father. It is fine to express one's just anger - it is when and how to control it that is important. The movie is truly funny from beginning to end and it will make you think
who needs therapy more: the patient or the doctor?
(Date reviewed: April 25, 2003)
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