Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen pair up in this R-rated rom-com fantasy set in the political arena that may sound all too familiar.
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Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen pair up in this R-rated rom-com fantasy set in the political arena that may sound all too familiar.
Life imitates Art and vice versa. In Jonathan Levine’s Long Shot, he definitely played up the political elements with Theron as the Secretary of State running for president, as well as the climate issues that her character is championing for, reflecting the current state of our world we live right now. Did we also mention that the incumbent president in the movie is ditching his honourable position for a shot at stardom? Well, the movie sure does contain real-life parallels, but during press tours, Theron and Rogen clarified that the movie isn’t imitating real life.
Out-of-job journalist Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen) reconnected with his babysitter Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron) who is now the Secretary of State. During their brief meeting over a fancy gathering, Field enjoyed the goofy, self-deprecating man’s company and hired him to be her speech writer. During their times together learning about each other, a romance starts to form between the two, but for her status sake, she has to forgo her love for career.
The unusual pairing up of the lead actors is actually what makes this movie great. Theron exudes power and intimidation with every move, which complements Rogen’s cowardly-sensitive nature. In a way, this unlikely romance follows a formulaic narrative but with a fresh perspective.
We’ve seen Theron in many other characters, mostly dramatic roles that are Oscar-worthy. While her comedies such as A Million Ways to Die in the West and Young Adult, with Long Shot, we see a different side of this actress who has impeccable comic timing with a weird wave to boot. Rogen, on the other hand, though very close to what he has played in his comedies in the last few years, has finally found a co-star who is able to match his goofy charm. Their pitch-perfect chemistry is what makes this romantic comedy an enjoyable treat, not forgetting the terrific supporting cast, particularly June Diane Raphael as Maggie, Charlotte’s assistant.
While the story does feel drawn out at certain points, it constantly tries to inject humour – be it the deprecating one-liners or slapstick gag – there are many themes to be mined, more than the love-conquers-all story arc. The ideals on feminism, sexist expectations and the public’s perception about a female president are also touched upon, which are all important and current factors to look at, but presented with comic relief, of course.
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