[Review] Long Shot

Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron star in Long Shot, a sharp and likable romantic comedy that thoughtfully dabbles in politics. 

Rogen plays Fred Flarsky (there’s a name), a down-an-out journalist and avid windbreaker wearer. At a charity event, he bumps into his childhood crush Charlotte Field (Theron), who is now the U.S. Secretary of State with hopes at a Presidential bid. In an unbelievable turn of events, Field hires Flarsky as a punch-up writer for her speeches. And, well, things eventually get a little messy, especially as feelings arise and motivations are questioned.

Commendably, Long Shot is the movie form of that rare political argument you see on Facebook where the discussion is nuanced and the people politely hear each other out and end up staying friends. The intentions are good, the ideals are sound, and there are plenty of belly laughs and handshakes to go around. It’s a very funny and refreshing script, full of over-the-top gags and witty zingers and winky pop-culture references (shout out to Lil Yachty). Rogen and Theron flex their comedy chops and foiling chemistries, while a couple of supporting cast members steal the spotlight, including O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Flarsky’s hilarious and motivational friend, and an almost unrecognizable Andy Serkis deeply disguised in make-up and prosthetics (and maybe a fat suit) as a slimy bigwig. Oh yeah, and there’s an extended Boyz II Men cameo, which made this nostalgic fan very happy. 

Long Shot is actually at its best when it isn’t focusing on the typical rom-com elements, and you pretty much have to suspend all of your disbelief in order to buy into this thing from the beginning (another reason why Long Shot is such a fitting title), but it’s a mostly agreeable comedy candidate to put your support behind. 

( 8/10 )