the_extremist

I think this movie is generally overrated. Sure, the general plot was intriguing, Will Ferrell proved he can act, and the characters were all developed nicely. But the script was an insult to the average moviegoers IQ. The story within the story really could not have been as exciting as we're forced to believe. Then there was only one vaguely memorable joke (the "flowers") which, as with most other lines in this movie, was repeated a few times as if we're incapable of hearing it the first time. Then the end - without spoiling it - was just not believable. There was so much more that could've been done with the idea, but unfortunately Stranger than Fiction comes across as a contrived, forgettable first draft at what should've been brilliant.

I saw this at the Johannesburg premiere last night, and the whole cinema seemed to love it.

There were some quality funny moments and a lot of jumps, my only criticism being that it lacked suspense, with some scenes being just a few seconds too long. But I never got bored, as my mind was busy trying to make sense of the plot and predict the "twist" I'd heard all about.

When the twist came, it suddenly made the whole movie so much more freaky. I'm normally good at predicting the end of movies but this one totally got me. Anyone who says the ending is unoriginal obviously didn't "get" the full extent of the twist. I have to go and see this again!

I can handle a good drama. But not when most of the movie is nothing but 2 people arguing and shouting at each other. And ESPECIALLY not when it is marketed as a comedy! Yet another movie to come out of the Hollywood meat processing factory, this story is (surprise) predictable and unoriginal; the dialog is weak and inane, but what really got to me is the shouting - it is completely energy-draining to watch and I left feeling almost sick. Everyone has had their fair share of breakups and/or fights, and there's no humor or joy value in watching a repeat of all your worst moments on the big screen.

This I will give the movie though: It is a realistic portrayal of a breakup, the actors did a great job, and there are maybe 2 or 3 minor funny moments. But as a whole its nothing special or memorable and if you're planning to buy a movie ticket to "get away" from your dreary life for 90 minutes, then don't see this one.