Collegio Online

Issue date: 6/14/07 Section: After Hours

'Knocked Up,' 2007

When I entered the theater to watch "Knocked Up," the new comedy from director Judd Apatow ("The 40-Year-Old Virgin"), I was confronted with a rather strange audience. Strange in the sense that it was, well, older than I expected.
For those familiar with Apatow's previous comedy hit, it's easy to tell that his comedic style is made for those with a tough skin, an adulterated mind.
Sitting in the crowd, I felt as if I had entered a lose-lose situation. Being surrounded by people probably double my age, I felt like I'd be ashamed if I laughed at something they would deem offensive.
But my fears were quickly erased when the movie started. The audience seemed to be having a good time, and laughed uncontrollably.
The movie starts out as two different people, on two separate paths, cross and find themselves in a rather humorous situation.
We first meet Ben Stone, played by Seth Rogen from "40-Year Old," and follow him as he and his gang of free-loading friends attempt to launch a Web site chronicling movie nude scenes featuring everyone from Kathy Bates to Meg Ryan. Then we meet Allison Scott, portrayed by Katherine Heigl of "Grey's Anatomy" fame, and watch as she tries to climb the career ladder.
After gaining minimal knowledge of the main characters, the two meet at a club, become intoxicated, and you know... make a baby.
While the comedic drive in the first half of the movie is more prevalent than the emotional element in the second half, there is never a dull moment with either Rogen or one of the film's cast of eccentrics lightening the mood with raunchy one-liners and buddy-like exchanges.
I must emphasize that this movie is very dirty. Chris Rock would find some of these jokes offensive. Unless you come prepared for a rough sense of humor, you might be in for a callous surprise.
With that said, there are many things in this movie that you won't find in other comedies.
Most notably, the acting in "Knocked Up" is very strong. Throughout the entire movie, Rogen and Heigl keep their characters grounded. As a result I really felt for them.
As good as the acting is, it's director/writer Judd Apatow who stands out. Apatow's humor is easy to relate to because his brand of banter is usually heard in the real world, but rarely makes the transition to the big screen.
Ultimately, the biggest draw of this film is its realism. Many comedies nowadays sugarcoat the humor; take the pain out of the pleasure. This movie takes a scenario that could happen to anyone, puts contrasting characters into that scenario, and lets the audience watch.
If you come to "Knocked Up" prepared for a brash, laugh-out-loud comedy, you'll leave satisfied. If you approach it with an open mind, you'll find that it's not only a can't-miss comedy, but a movie with a message, one that it delivers well.

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