Yes Man

Not terrible! I resisted seeing this, because really, the last thing the world needs is another goofy Jim Carrey movie. This movie is goofy, but sweeter than I expected, and aside from a very few moments, completely lacking in Jim Carrey ridiculousness. It was a little too Liar Liar, but one can't expect TOO much from a light hearted comedy. The world seems to be running out of original ideas. Once again, Zooey Deschanel expertly plays the quirky, unpredictable gal, not doing what will make her successful by societal standards, but just doing what she wants. She seems surprisingly well kept for someone who, by all estimation, has no job or way to earn income aside from an early morning running group she leads, along which the runners also snap photos. Toward the end we see her at a gallery, during an exhibition of, it appears, her photos. Pictures it seems she took while running, with a bizarre camera that takes surprisingly great photos, that she then somehow develops and mounts and displays in a gallery, despite making no money. Unrealistic movie artistry at its best. That aside, she does play quirky well.

Jim Carrey is endearing in his role as Carl Allen. Bank loan officer by day...not much else by night. The message of the film, intended or not, is great. Open yourself up, say yes a bit more, try new things and in general, just put yourself out there. Carl gets two promotions in short order by giving out micro loans to any and everyone who asks. The people are so grateful, they pay back the money quickly and in full, and the bank makes money. Carl's ally at work, Norman (Norm, oh hey! That's like a nickname for me, right?) sticks by Carl in a really heartwarming way. Not knowing if he's being punished or rewarded, Norm stands by Carl's side when he's being confronted about his 500 loan approvals. When Carl gets lauded and promoted for his work, he leaves Norm behind. Norm who stood up for him and stood by him. He does end up making amends with Norm at the end. After shutting down his bank branch and taking away his source of income, he introduces Norm to a girl...so that's something I suppose. Naturally Carl had recently been dumped for a richer (yet worse looking of COURSE) man. His ex finds his new attitude sexy and appealing, and wants him back. Carl says no. He says no!! He realizes he sometimes has to say no, damn the consequences and "covenant" which I never understood. Something hokey that Carl thinks is true. If he says no, the world comes after him. He says no to his ex, so an elevator breaks down and his car gets towed. Ehhhh, not so much, but I see the charm. Bradley Cooper is in the movie. Enough said. I'm not sure what the point of his character is. He's a true friend to Carl, but Carl doesn't listen to him. Who needs that in a movie.