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Eddie (Ben Stiller) is a 40-year old bachelor who owns a small sports shop. Under pressure of his friends and his father, he tries his luck searching for someone who can be his partner for life. At this point of life's crisis he bumps into a stranger named Lila in an unusual situation when he tries to help her running after a bag-snatcher. Ed immediately shares to his friends and his father how he is smitten by Lila (Michelle Monaghan). The next time they meet, they confirm the special feeling for each other and then on the sixth week of their relationship Eddie and Lila get married. On the long drive to Mexico, Eddie starts to sense something strange about Lila. In bed he discovers how wild Lila is on sex and likewise confirms their many differences. Alone in the resort bar Eddie meets Miranda (Malin Akerman); they click instantly. Soon Eddie realizes that she cannot let go of Miranda so while still on honeymoon with wife, he is thinking of ways to tell Lila that the marriage is over.
The film is not actually a heartbreaking story as the title says. But acting-wise Ben Stiller effectively delivers. The director successfully brings out the highlights in each character that makes a well-focused film despite some odd scenes like Eddie joining the people illegally crossing over the boarder and the rugged Eddie inside the bedroom of Miranda and the husband. Although within the context of the film, sex scenes are still unnecessarily long. Nevertheless, the cinematography is good with suitable lighting and sound effects. The blend of modern pop and Mexican music in the scoring likewise compliments the film as a comedy with slightly serious theme.
The film shows that a rush marriage does not work especially when couples start to discover not only differences but off-beat attitudes as well. Indeed, honesty and openness are crucial in a relationship prior to making a lifetime commitment. Failure is certain as in this case when no further efforts are done to save the marriage during the man’s infidelity at a time of confusion. The film tries to convey, however, how liberating it could be to be true to oneself, shows the consequences of wrong actions which could include losing one’s true love. At this low point of Eddie's life, the film also shows how concerned and supportive a father can be. The film offers life's lesson especially for long time unmarried men and women. In view of overall adult theme, nude exposure and frequent sex scenes, the film may only be viewed by adult viewers.
(Date Reviewed: 18 January 2008)
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