This film is worth going to see for the names in it (Bill Murray, Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, Alec Baldwin, Bradley Cooper), but I warn you, it is most definitely a romantic comedy.
Brian Gilcrest (Cooper), who used to work for NASA, has been sent to Hawaii by an evil billionaire (Murray) to strike a deal with some Hawaiians. He swaps land and cell phone service for permission to launch a satellite. Along the way of course, he trips over his ex-girlfriend Tracy (McAdams) and questions whether he is still in love with her while he toys with the idea of sleeping with his fighter pilot (Stone). The female characters are written to be floozies, which of course makes Bradley Cooper look stupid, but heroic, emotionally tortured and ultimately loveable.
Alec Baldwin as General Dixon is a highlight. His stone-faced, deadpan delivery and bursts of outrage pepper the film with excitement. The not-so-subtle hints that the US defence force is a rudderless boat controlled by billionaires provide an overall strong message. It’s nice to see an American film directly address the negative impact of American occupation in other countries. And of course, there’s also stunning Hawaiian scenery, emotional tension and romance to look at. There are plenty of brilliant throwaway lines as well about Americans feeling enlightened when they take MDMA and cover themselves in mud at Coachella — always appreciated.
