Maltin on Movies Season 1 Episode 49 "50/50", "What's Your Number?", and "Tucker & Dale vs Evil" Reviews

In episode 49 of season 1 of "Maltin on Movies," renowned film critic Leonard Maltin and his daughter, Jessie Maltin, delve into a trio of comedies that offer a mix of laughter, romance, and horror. Join them as they provide insightful reviews and discussions on the films "50/50," "What's Your Number?," and "Tucker & Dale vs Evil."

The episode kicks off with the heartfelt dramedy "50/50," directed by Jonathan Levine. This film centers around Adam, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, a young man who is unexpectedly diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Adam's life is turned upside down as he navigates the challenges of his illness, all while dealing with the support of his best friend, Kyle, portrayed by Seth Rogen. Maltin and Maltin delve into the delicate balance of humor and poignant storytelling that makes "50/50" such a unique and powerful film. Through their insightful analysis, they explore the film's ability to tackle a difficult subject matter with compassion and authenticity, while still delivering moments of genuine levity.

Next up is "What's Your Number?," a romantic comedy directed by Mark Mylod and starring Anna Faris and Chris Evans. The film follows the story of Ally, played by Faris, who, alarmed by a magazine article, decides to revisit her past relationships in search of her perfect partner among her exes. Along the way, she enlists the help of her neighbor, played by Evans, and together they embark on a humorous journey of self-discovery. Maltin and Maltin take a closer look at the film's exploration of love, relationships, and societal expectations. They discuss the comedic chemistry between Faris and Evans, and how the movie offers an entertaining blend of romance and laughter, while also touching upon deeper themes of self-acceptance.

Lastly, the episode delves into the horror comedy "Tucker & Dale vs Evil," directed by Eli Craig. Starring Tyler Labine and Alan Tudyk, the film introduces us to two well-meaning, but misunderstood, hillbillies who find themselves mistaken for psychotic killers by a group of college students during a vacation in the woods. Maltin and Maltin dive into the film's subversion of traditional horror tropes, as well as its clever use of humor to satirize the genre. They analyze the performances of Labine and Tudyk, highlighting their comedic timing and the film's ability to create genuine moments of tension and hilarity simultaneously. Uncovering the film's hidden layers, they discuss how "Tucker & Dale vs Evil" challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh take on the horror comedy genre.

Throughout the episode, Leonard Maltin and Jessie Maltin engage in a lively conversation, sharing their personal perspectives and shedding light on the strengths and weaknesses of each film. Their expertise and passion for cinema shine through as they explore the unique aspects of these comedy films, shedding light on their themes, performances, and directorial choices.

"Maltin on Movies" season 1 episode 49 provides a comprehensive and engaging analysis of three distinct comedic films, featuring thoughtful discussions that delve beyond surface-level analysis. Whether you're a fan of heartfelt dramedies, romantic comedies, or horror comedies, this episode offers valuable insights for all cinephiles while remaining entertaining and accessible. Tune in to explore the world of comedy and cinema through the lens of Leonard Maltin and Jessie Maltin, and discover new perspectives on these beloved films.