Long Shot

The premise for this romcom sounds a little preposterous to say the least.  Charlize Theron plays a beautiful and very popular Secretary of State, Charlotte Field, for a president (Bob Odenkirk) who was elected because of his popularity on televison (sound familiar?)  Odenkirk’s character decides not to run for reelection, leaving the door wide open for her to run and become the first woman president.  Along comes Fred Flarsky, played by Seth Rogen.  He is a struggling journalist for a failing newspaper that has just been bought out by a Rupert Murdoch-esque sleaze.  He is considered something of a nerdy pest, but believes strongly in free and honest journalism, so he quits the paper rather than sell out. An old friend, Lance (O’Shea Jackson Jr)  tries to help him out and cheer him up. Fred resists until Lance tells him they will be going to an event where Boyz II Men are going to perform.  Charlotte is also going to be there, and It turns out the two were childhood friends, and Fred has had a crush on her since she babysat for him.  They meet at the event and reconnect after an embarrassing mishap (Fred ends up being an Internet sensation).  I am spoiling nothing by telling you that this is the most unlikely on screen pairing since Esmerelda and Quasimodo.  However, there is an unlikely, but likeable, chemistry between the two – and it is fun watching them and their compatriots on their political path.   Long Shot offers both romance and humor.  In a surprise part, look for Andy Serkis.  I won’t tell you which role this acting chameleon plays but see if you recognize him.  All in all, the movie demonstrates that the romantic comedy might not be dead after all.