Customer Reviews

Someone Like You [VHS]

5 star:		(45)
4 star:		(44)
3 star:		(27)
2 star:		(13)
1 star:		(10)

 

 

It's nice to go to a fancy restaurant where you can sit down and have a big, juicy steak with all the trimmings, or a gourmet meal served on fine china. But sometimes you just feel like checking out the pizza buffet, and when the atmosphere is right and the pizza turns out to be perfect, it can be every bit as satisfying as haute cuisine. And that's the way it is with "Someone Like You," directed by Tony Goldwyn and starring Ashley Judd, Greg Kinnear and Hugh Jackman. If you just want to relax and be entertained, with a movie that's not too challenging and let's you just go with the flow, then you've come to the right buffet. Ashley Judd is Jane Goodale, who begins a relationship with new co-worker Ray (Kinnear) that goes so well so quickly that she thinks it's going to last forever. And when it suddenly goes south for no apparent reason, she is crushed. Why did Ray jilt her? Was it just her, or is this just the way "Men" are? Her musings on the subject ultimately lead to the formulation of what she calls the "New Cow" theory, which basically states that once men, like bulls, have had the cow, they move on to yet another "new" cow, leaving the "old" cow behind. Realizing, of course, that lacking sufficient data her concept would never hold up to any real scientific scrutiny, she is afforded the chance to study it further when-- due to the circumstances of her breakup with Ray-- she finds herself without an apartment, and moves in with another co-worker, Eddie (Jackman). And Eddie is a notorious womanizer who seems to have a "new cow" every other day. Along the way, as Jane draws her final conclusions, there are some memorable-- and at times, humorous-- moments, like when Jane revives one of her old cheerleader routines for Eddie. But whether or not she is able to prove her theory doesn't really make any difference; the important thing is, you'll have a good time going along with her while she tries.

There's nothing very deep here, the plot is familiar in the genre of romantic comedy, and Goldwyn certainly doesn't break any new ground with it. He keeps things moving right along, but uses a straightforward approach to tell the story that is fairly unimaginative and lacks the distinction of say, a Nora Ephron film. Still, it's a good bit of entertainment, carried by the engaging performances of Judd and Jackman, which alone makes it worth the price of admission. Judd is a wholesome beauty with a natural appeal, and she can act; Jackman is charismatic and has a definite screen presence. And there's chemistry between the two of them that make it work. There's no real surprises along the way, but it's like taking your favorite scenic drive; you've seen it all before, but it's pleasant and fun, and in the end you're glad you took the trip.

The supporting cast includes Ellen Barkin (Diane), Marisa Tomei (Liz), Matthew Coyle (Staff Member), Hugh Downs (Himself) and LeAnna Croom (Rebecca). When you put it all into perspective, you realize that "Someone Like You" is actually a real treat. And Goldwyn, though he may not have given it that "special" touch, should be given credit for delivering a solid, uplifting and entertaining movie that is well worth seeing. It may not be in the same league as "Return To Me," or "You've Got Mail," but if you've ever been subjected to bottom-of-the-genre-feeders like "The Bachelor," or "The Wedding Planner," you'll definitely appreciate this one for what it is. It's warm and funny, and it'll leave you with a good feeling inside and a smile on your face. And that, my friends, is the magic of the movies.

This movie is just what it appears to be, a fun entertaining way to spend an evening. The premise of the New Cow Theory is funny brought on by being dumped by a man yet again. Ashley Judd always provides the audience with an excellent performance. It doesn't matter what role she tackles, it is always solidly done. What a choice - being able to choose from Greg Kinnear and Hugh Jackman! It would be a no lose situation.

The first time I saw Someone Like You I was on a business trip. Little else stuck with me on that trip, besides this movie that I recently purchased on DVD. By far one of the best romantic comedies I've seen, although the movie is predictable, how many times can you see a "romantic comedy" and not know there is a twist and happy ending? Ashely Judd, Greg Kinnear and Hugh Jackman do a wonderful job portraying their characters and highlighting issues that surround many who are in today's singles scene. The "cow theory" was an exceptionally creative twist and having always been a big fan of Marisa Tomei, what's to resist? Someone Like You is a not a side splitting comedy, but one that will leave a heartwarming smile spread across your lips. It's charming, endearing and very much a glimpse into the issues women face in today's dating world. Guys, if you want to win the girl with a nice night on the couch with a chick flick, this is one that she'll appreciate!

I admit it: despite the fact that they are often banal, I am a sucker for romantic comedies. So I loved Someone Like You. I marvel at the story of boy meets girl, boy makes promises to girl and then -- for no apparent reason -- boy dumps girl.

I loved Animal Husbandry, the novel this film is based on. I thought the novel was witty, intelligent and fun. The film, though not as good as the novel, is delightful. Ashley Judd does a great portrayal of the obsessive Jane Goodall. Gregg Kinnear does a convincing role of the commitment-shy Ray and Hugh Jackman is adorable as the womanizer Eddie. However, Marisa Tomei and Ellen Barkin shouldn't have settled for such insubstantial supporting roles. They're such great actresses, after all.

The setback in the film is the ending. Like most films based on novels, the ending is altered. The ending in Animal Husbandry is subtle, whereas Someone Like You goes into dramatic mode. I know that films have to be more extravagant with the stories, but the ending here is too banal and sort of ruins the wit and fun approach the film had in the beginning.

Still, I think you should get together with a few female friends and enjoy this wonderful chick flick. (Men may want to steer clear from this one, for it has a bit of male-bashing in it.)

Having read and only somewhat liked "Animal Husbandry", the book on which this film is based, I was skeptical. I had also heard horrible reviews of it, so to my surprise, I was entertained by this movie.

Ashley Judd plays Jane, a woman who undergoes a horrible breakup at the hands of Ray (Greg Kinnear). In the aftermath, she comes up with "Old/New Cow" theory--essentially, that a man who has slept with a woman will thereafter get tired of her and move on to a "new cow". Unlike the book, which details this theory in endless prose, the film cleverly uses titles and visuals of scientists testing this theory.

Ashley Judd isn't going to give Meg Ryan any fears about being dethroned as the romantic comedy heroine of choice. But Judd is charming, intelligent, and quirky as the female lead, and Hugh Jackman is attractive and testosterine-filled as the womanizing Eddie, who eventually becomes Jane's roommate.

One minor quibble, and that's that the movie changes the ending of the book somewhat to give a somewhat artificially happy ending. But who cares? This is a light, pleasant romantic comedy that--dare I say it--actually improves upon the book.

This is a great little romantic comedy. Ashley Judd is adorable and Hugh Jackman and Greg Kinnear are perfect. The most hilarious part of the film is the fake psychologist Judd creates to put forth her comparison of humans to cattle, comparing man's polygamous mating drive to that of a bull. Some genuine laughs and a heartwarming romance. Recommended.

The chemistry between all the characters is great to watch. Hugh Jackman is definitely easy on the eyes and Greg Kinnear plays a great "bad" guy. Ashley Judd does well as the "woman in upheaval." The real scene stealer, though, is Marisa Tomei. Given the chance, this movie could have done just as well had it been about her character. Ever since My Cousin Vinny, she's been an actress to shine. All in all, when I want to watch a feel-good movie this is what I throw in.

There are two major reasons to see this movie. They are Hugh Jackman and Ashley Judd. Both of these actors have real sizzle for a romantic comedy-drama blend. In fact, Greg Kinnear, playing a third major character, although necessary to the plot line, doesn't strike me as a likely romantic lead at all. Kinnear's getting 2nd billing in the film surprised me. I think Jackman can wipe him right off the screen romantically speaking. The script is a bit predictable with Judd's character falling for Kinnear. Then, when he is torn about going back to his original girlfriend, she develops a bizarre theory about why men are like cows and bulls. She even writes a column on it for a major magazine. I thought the movie got better as it progressed, which is unusual, but I think the reason why was that Jackman was in more of the movie from the second half on and his screen charisma really made a difference. I think if someone casts him as the total romantic lead in a romantic movie from start to finish, he will have quite a following. Ellen Barkin plays a supporting role in the film as everyone's boss, a talk show host. I miss her taking on weightier roles. Van Morrison's "Someone Like You," closes the film and is a perfect endnote.

Although this movie was somewhat formulatic, I found it worth watching. Ashley Judd does a wonderful job of playing the emotionally wounded main character, who gives her heart to Ray (Greg Kinnear), who then proceeds to step on it.
Feeling angry and sad, she makes up theories, comparing men to cows. And she loses her apartment, which forces her to move in with womanizing coworker Eddie (Hugh Jackman), who has been sleeping around a lot, in order to cover up his emotionally damaged self.
Anyway, you can sort of predict where the movie is going, but humorous dialogue and good chemistry make this movie a chick flick worth seeing :)

Judd and Jackman make a very unorginal plot breathtaking and hilarious. Greg Kinnear and Marissa Tomei are also wonderful in this film.

Let's face it, 99.9% of us women are entranced and in love with romantic comedies. Someone Like You is no exception for me! Although very predictable, I still loved this movie. THere is no way in this world that you could be disappointed, unless you're a straight male.

Judd plays Jane Goodall, a woman who's heart is broken by Ray(Greg Kinnear.) Goodall moves in with Eddie(Jackman) to lash out at Ray. The whole movie is just amazing. Please rent, if not buy this movie and watch it over and over again!