Patrick Sun

Run Fatboy Run - quick review

"Run Fatboy Run" starts awkwardly, never really gaining a strong footing in establishing Dennis (played by Simon Pegg) as someone you would find sympathetic enough to root for in this somewhat bland comedy about a guy who runs out on his wedding (pregnant bride and all) 5 years ago, and becomes competitive when a new suitor (Whit played by Hank Azaria) shows up for the mother (Libby played by Thandie Newton) of his child (Jake) and somewhat compels Dennis into running an upcoming marathon to prove his worth. Tonally, the film is a mix bag of decent comedy bits in few spots, but sags for most of the running time, and overall, it never really comes together well.

David Schwimmer (Ross from "Friends") directs this film, and does an average job, but isn't able to elevate the script (by Michael Ian Black, best known as Phil Stubbs on "Ed", and Simon Pegg) for most of its running time, and this results in a hodge-podge of scenes that leaves the film disjointed and uninvolving. If you're a fan of Simon Pegg and his films, I'd recommend an afternoon matinee viewing at best.

I give it 2 stars or a grade of C.

"I am a leaf on the wind, watch how I soar!"
Patcave | 2006 Films | 2007 Films | Dragon Con 2007

Adam Lenhardt

Re: Run Fatboy Run - quick review

I'll agree that the film is disjointed at times, but I thought the film did an incredible job mapping out Dennis's arc. The fact that Dennis isn't the charming Hugh Grant-esque loser and is both an actual failure and unlikable makes that even more impressive. Unlike a lot of movies about schlubs, this one actually takes the time to explore WHY he might have a shot at winning her back. Dennis, unlike many of his onscreen Peter Pan complex contemporaries, actually grows and works to improve himself. And I though Simon Pegg did an incredible job with his scenes as a father.

It's definitely not a slick comedy, but I think it's better for that. I posted my own review on my website.