The Guilt Trip is that rare film in which the trailer has nothing on the film itself. Upon watching the trailer for this---I thought "this looks dreadful." Upon watching the film itself---all I can say is that it's one of the funnier, more likable comedies I have seen this year. Sure---it's no Silver Linings Playbook but The Guilt Trip just plain works.
In the film---Seth Rogen plays Andrew Brewster who just invented a new product and is desperately trying to get companies to buy it. On his way to more interviews---he visits his mother, Joyce (Barbara Streisand) and decides to take her on a cross country road trip for more than one reason.
The chemistry between these two is instantly palpable. They are obviously having fun with one another and play well off one another. When Joyce says something completely inappropriate---Andrew is right there with a very funny response. Rogen has always been one of my favorite comic talents while Streisand has never been one of my favorites. I'll admit---she's talented but I've never loved her in a film. That is until now. While Rogen is very, very funny here---Streisand plays what could have been a cliche character and does wonders. She is in equal parts sweet and funny and reminds every member of the audience just what she is capable of.
This is also one of those feel good films where if you don't get the message of the film you are either (a) completely dumb or (b) completely cynical. The film is very sweet but not in a syrupy or over-the-top way. Rather---it makes us feel for the characters at hand and gives us people to root for.
In the midst of Oscar season...it's nice to just sit down and watch a funny comedy. While it may not be a fantastic film....The Guilt Trip certainly fits that bill. It works on almost all levels a comedy should work and makes the audience think twice about their relationships with their mothers.
(3 and 1/2 out of 5 Stars, The film is rated PG-13 for language and some risque material)
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