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Ah the joys of dating. Who can forget the insecurity, the late nights, the
dining out, the heartbreaks, and the lines people use just go try to get
someone in bed? In the new comedy “40 Days and 40 Nights” viewers are
introduced to Matt Sullivan (Josh Hartnett), a computer design worker who is
recovering from a difficult breakup by sleeping with every lady he can find
in San Francisco. This is not going very well as poor Matt believes that the
ceiling is becoming a black hole and will consume him during his coitial
bliss. While seeking advice from his priest in training brother Adam (John
Sullivan), Matt decides to try giving up all forms of sex for 40 days and
nights for Lent in an effort to rid himself of his issues and his pining for
his ex of six months. At first it all is well for Matt as he finds projects
to keep himself distracted. Fate soon steps in with a chance encounter at a
laundry mat where Matt encounters Erica (Shannyn Sossamon), who is in many
ways his ideal woman. Matt and Erica begin to date, but Matt is abstaining
from all forms of contact including kisses, hand holding, and hugs, and
faces the issue of showing Erica he is crazy about her without breaking his
vow. Why doesn’t he just tell her about his vow? Well our hero has decided
that doing so might make him seem a sex fiend to the lady of his dreams so
he decides to avoid the topic no matter how hard things get. Compounding the
issue are Matt's co-workers who try to seduce him, or tempt him to fail in
order to win an internet pool on just how long he can last. With the pot
growing near $18,000 there is plenty of motivation for people to make Matt
fail in his quest.
The film is a funny and often ribald look at the sexes
and how they view dating, sex, and communication. While the film drags in
spots, Hartnett is very good in his role and the audience can clearly feel
his pain and suffering as he attempts to complete his vow. Sossamon is good
in a restrained manner that sets her apart from the standard film
girlfriend. She is kind and caring, but never unrealistic in her affection
for Matt despite the odd situation they are in. The film’s content and
nudity may be a bit much for some, but if you want to get some good laughs
and see a novel twist on the war of the sexes, than this film may be just
what you are looking for.
3.5 stars out of 5
Gareth Von Kallenbach
gareth@nwlink.com
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40 Days and 40 Nights
Staring:
Josh
Harnett
John Sullivan
Directed By:
Michael Lehmann
Rated: R
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