Dinner for Schmucks - What a Schmuck  
| Who would have thought that a movie starring Steve Carell and Paul Rudd could be so utterly humourless? Alright there are a few funny moments but most of Dinner for Schmucks has few laughs. This movie could have been something... but it's not.
The premise is a bit inspired. If the film makers had the balls to go to the dark place that would motivate people to use others for entertainment in the manner of a real dinner for fools, the film may have been an interesting piece. Instead, the film makers just paint businessmen (how cliche!) as heartless simpletons and the noble "idiot" as a precious victim. Yet we are still supposed to laugh. Don't they see the contradiction. Let's condemn those wanting to exploit others for laughter but while we are doing it we will laugh at them too? Pathetic.
The film is so in love with its premise that it lurches along trying to get to the "idiot" moments as soon as possible. The set up is completely unbelievable, the plot convoluted and silly. We are just supposed to buy it. You at least have to sell it to me and Dinner for Schmucks doesn't sell it.
I admit there were some scenes where I laughed. These are talented funny men and they do so good work. But overall, the film is a big disappointment, especially when it tries to get all sentimental. Don't be a schmuck and see this film.
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