“40 Dates and 40 Nights” follows Leah, who takes her grandma’s outrageous challenge to go on 40 dates in 40 nights in exchange for a full year of paid rent.
If nonchalant were a movie, it would be “40 Dates and 40 Nights.” The title alone delivers the basic plot, and it doesn’t have any urgency to move past this. Sarah Howard’s screenplay is focused on exploring fragments of Leah through conversations with other characters. This includes her best friend Bianca, Grandma Gigi and, of course, the 40 dates. Because of this, it often functions like a string of distinct conversations rather than a smoothly flowing story. However, it also makes it feel almost like life itself. By only showing small moments in her life, it allows the audience to gradually shift their opinion of her and those she interacts with as new discussions unfold.
The film is relatable in this way. For many, the modern dating landscape probably feels like a never-ending string of disasters, and that’s exactly how “40 Dates and 40 Nights” presents it. The montages of “bad dates” are inherently humorous — and a little scary — but also a necessary step in Leah’s self-discovery. At a certain point, though, the thematics get lost in a world of chance. With every ounce of realism in “40 Dates and 40 Nights,” there’s also a plethora of logic gaps. It relies on instances of coincidence to constantly propel the narrative forward, which takes away from the authenticity. The 40-dates gimmick itself becomes a sort of afterthought once it passes the midway point.
It follows a classic rom-com formula: characters at odds turn lovers. Director Andy Delaney embraces this, however, with over-the-top characters to match the clichés.
Bailee Madison (Leah) is at the heart of it all, with an outwardly eccentric and giddy personality that radiates through every second of the 101-minute runtime. She largely maintains a positive demeanor, but is also able to deliver feelings of sadness and anxiety when necessary. Also appearing are Annie Potts (Gigi), Luxy Banner (Bianca) and Joel Courtney (Mason). Each of these characters is really only present to enhance Leah’s journey, but they do have brief instances of personal growth as well. Potts brings a bubbly vibe, offering kindness and hope with every appearance. Banner plays the friend everyone wants, being both uplifting and serious whenever needed. Courtney plays a “normal” guy — literally, because every other person Leah goes on a date with is atypical. Whether they’re arguing or laughing, Madison and Courtney have instant chemistry together. Despite the stereotypical nature of their connection, the duo makes the relationship believable.
Rather than visuals, “40 Dates and 40 Nights” relies on these performances to bring the story to life. Director of photography Eric Zimmerman typically keeps the camera still outside of occasional pans. He maintains a shallow depth of field during character conversations while widening it for “grand” moments. It’s a safe approach, but one that remains engaging thanks to the consistently bright and colorful imagery.
“40 Dates and 40 Nights” doesn’t take many risks, but the charming actors and premise make this rom-com entertaining.
Rating: 3 out of 5
