MY FELLOW AMERICANS

1/2

I have an automatic bias in favor of any film with Jack Lemmon and James Garner independently, let alone one in which they appear together. My expectations for the film weren't high, however, because of reviews by both critics and friends. I'm glad to say that it wasn't as disappointing as I had expected.

 There was the problem, for me, of the high content of bad language and vulgar references. Contrary to what the screenwriters think, that isn't what makes a film like this funny. What makes a film like this funny is allowing the great performers you have at your disposal to do what they do best: entertain. This feels like a made-to-order script, so I have to ask myself why they thought they had to sink to jokes that would be more at home in a DUMB & DUMBER sequel. In a nutshell: the script isn't great. Corny, yes, though fun. But also just plain low at times.

 On the plus side, our two Presidents do just fine, otherwise. Jack Lemmon remains one of my favorite all-time actors. He's just incredibly versatile. And convincing. And James Garner must have more charisma than any ten other actors combined.

 There are some good scenes in this show. I like the two car rental agents, and the vice- president's constant idiocy. A well-maintained fakade indeed. His apology to the victim of his golf swing just kept getting better (and more nastily funny in light of Tiger Woods' recent wins).

 The two leads don't play off each other as well as Lemmon & Matthau, but who can? Other than maybe Lemmon & Curtis. As it is, they are great. And the movie is basically a good time.