Long Shot

Official Australian release date: 2/5/19. Viewed: 17/4/19.

Director: Jonathan Levine

Actors: Charlize Theron, Seth Rogen, June Diane Raphael, O’Shea Jackson Jr.

Genre: Comedy / Romance

Rating: M

‘Long Shot’ is not a typical Seth Rogen raunchy-comedy, but in saying that, it still features a fair bit of language, sex and drugs. However, not that many classic Rogen laughs! It’s not co-written by Rogen or any of his friends, but still relies a lot on his everyman charm as Fred. The film belongs mostly to Charlotte (Theron), who is Secretary of State, but seems mostly normal and nice. Theron and Rogen work quite well together onscreen.

Directed by Levine (‘50/50’ and ‘Warm Bodies’, both great), he handles “rom-com” well, keeping the pacing up and not dwelling on any drama for too long. There’s plenty of able comedy support for Rogen, with Maggie (Diane Raphael), Lance (Jackson/Ice Cube Jr), Tom (Patel) and Chambers (Odenkirk) getting some decent jokes/moments. Andy Serkis as Wembley (Rupert Murdoch substitute) is great to watch – and between him and Odenkirk’s ignorant President, provides a great bit of up-to-date political commentary.

It’s all quite believable and both the tender and serious moments are handled well. The whole “she would never go for him” thing barely comes into it, as both Theron & Rogen are relatable and their chemistry is nice to watch. Good ending and feels quicker than it’s 2 hours.

Overall: Enjoyable rom-com.

Gav's Rating: 3.5 stars.