Synopsis
Adam Sandler is a Hawaii-based veterinarian and swinging bachelor, seducing one touristafter another. His pleasure in short-term flings comes to a crashing end when he meets DrewBarrymore, who is physically incapable of anything but a short fling: she has no short-termmemory, and begins every morning with no recollection of the day before. Sandler, however,is smitten, and puts himself through all sorts of contortions to win the girl of his dreams. Againand again and again.< ...p>
If Anger Management was a step down for Sandler from Punch-Drunk Love,than 50 First Dates is a step down from Anger Management. The slapstick is tiredand predictable, and the romance isn’t that interesting. As for Barrymore, at least this is a stepup from Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, for whatever that’s worth.
Audio
A generally clean, but unspectacular 5.1 mix here. The surround effects are infrequent,though when present (such as during a rain storm) they can be quite strong. No complaints howthe music is rendered. The dialogue does occasionally become a bit harsh, but is neversubmerged in the mix.
Video
Very nice colours, with the opening shot leaping out of the screen. Blacks and contrasts areexcellent. There is no grain or edge enhancement to deal with, either. The picture is presented inthe full 2.40:1 anamorphic widescreen ratio. A fine looking transfer, in other words.
Special Features
Director Peter Segal and Drew Barrymore’s commentary is a bit silly, but does provideample behind-the-scenes info, particularly on the technical side of things. There are threefeaturettes (“The Dating Scene”, “Talkin’ Pidgin — Hawaiian Slang” and a Comedy Central“Reel Comedy” episode) are standard fare, serving very little purpose if you’ve already seen themovie. The five deleted scenes have an optional (and again quite technical) commentary bySegal. There is also a blooper reel, 3 music videos (“Hold Me Now” by Wayne Wonder,“Amber” and “Love Song” by 311), cast and crew filmographies, and double handfuls of trailers.I don’t count a short ad for Sandler’s new comedy album as an extra. The intro, transitions andmain menu screen are animated and scored.
Closing Thoughts
A lackluster romantic comedy. All involved can do better work than this.
Special Features List
- Audio Commentary
- 3 Featurettes
- Blooper Reel
- Deleted Scenes with Optional Director’s Commentary
- 3 Music Videos
- Cast and Crew Filmographies
- Trailers
