Kirk's been in a funk, spurred mostly by the break up between he and his ex-girlfriend, Marnie(Lindsey Sloane). Marnie's the type who's ugly personality makes her physical appearance less attractive than she really is. Kirk pines for her openly, but she's moved on to a far more attractive but shallow guy. Kirk's parents still love Marnie, so much so that she's still invited on the family vacations. Apparently, 'awkward' isn't in their dictionary.
It's by complete chance that Kirk runs into Molly(Alice Eve). Molly is what the guys call a "Hard 10". Perfect long blond hair that seems to always be blowing in the wind even when she's standing still; an amazing job; sense of humor. She's got it all put together into one stacked little package. Men break their necks doing a double take wherever she goes. Fortunately for Kirk, she's also a bit flighty. Accidentally leaving her cell phone behind after an uncomfortable security search before her flight, Kirk is gentleman enough to deliver it back to her in person. Grateful for his chivalry, she asks him out on a date. Lucky dog.
Much to the chagrin of Alice's best friend Patty, and Kirk's crew of homies. What the hell is a woman like her doing with a guy like him? What can he possibly provide somebody like her? Isn't she taking quite a step down from the hunky fighter pilots she's used to dating? All valid questions, I suppose, just not when they're coming from your best friends. Almost on cue, the insecurities begin to mount.
I've been a huge fan of Jay Baruchel ever since he starred in Judd Apatow's short-lived sitcom, Undeclared, where he played essentially the same character, a well meaning but average guy trying to impress the quirky hot chick. He has more leading man potential than one would think just by looking at him. He's got the look of a regular joe, but with slightly more of an edge.
The film walks the tightrope between fratboy and romantic comedy. It feels like it could've come straight from the Judd Apatow camp. There are a ton of huge laughs that had the audience howling. Most of these involve Kirk's superficial buddies and they're simultaneous desire to see how far his relationship goes and how badly it will implode. They even try to help poor Kirk out. Next time your buddy offers to help you trim the hair in a certain place that shall go unnamed, just say no. Again, 'awkward' doesn't appear to be in anyone's dictionary.
The typical romantic comedy tropes do rear their ugly head near the film's conclusion, including a forced argument that seems to have been included only because someone thought there wasn't enough tension. That is the film's best quality! It's unabashedly charming and positive. The story was moving along just fine without the shoe-horned drama. Although I will admit, it did have me rooting for a quick and happy resolution. I won't give away whether we get that or not.
She's Out of My League is a perfect date movie. It has something to say about what real love looks like, but also smacks you in the face with some great comedic moments, and a couple that you genuinely want to see live happily ever after.
