Nick and Nora

So I finally watched Nick and Nora.

First off I was already prejudiced against this movie for two different reasons: 1) I detest  Michael Cera. Ever since arrested development he has played the same character over and over. (Lust for cousin strictly optional). I find it hard to believe that women find him attractive. Even with the guitar and on stage he still seemed like that odd kid who isn't quite right in the head. 2) They stole Nick and Nora and dumbed it way way down. If you have never heard of the The Thin Man watch it! The Complete Thin Man Collection (The Thin Man / After the Thin Man / Another Thin Man / Shadow of the Thin Man / The Thin Man Goes Home / Song of the Thin Man / Alias Nick and Nora) These movies while they may claim to be mysteries are really built around the interactions between the two main characters Nick and Nora. Every scene is dripping with wit and artful duels of conversations. Instead, I was treated to discussions about who has more indie cred, and why my friends suck more than your friends, and let's discuss our exes.

There were some positives though. The biggest one for me was Nora's drunk friend Caroline. The girl was perfectly convincing as the person who is too much trouble for anyone's good. Plus when I read that she improved the majority of her performance I was further impressed (See the turkey sandwich scene YouTube it if you have to). Other good things include Nick's band. Sure they played up some gay stereotypes but frankly who doesn't? They were amusing and their interactions with the rest of the cast made me giggle.

Overall this movie was worth seeing just to be caught up with the rest of my generation. While the idea of running around NYC looking for a band that only likes to do "secret shows" is actually creative and sounds like a whole lot of fun (especially to those of us trapped in the Midwest), Michael Cera's monotone and the "witty" dialog leave a lot to be desired.