Run, FatBoy, Run

--PG-13-- Raise your hand if you thought David Schwimmer (Ross from Friends) would direct a successful British Romantic Comedy. Okay now raise your hand if you thought Schwimmer would make a film starring writer/actor Simon Pegg. Thought so...

Pegg, the star of films Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz makes a legitimate statement in his first leading role in a straight film. Admittedly when I watched the previews for Run, Fatboy, Run I was certain it was going to be another farce. Clearly I was wrong, because Fatboy is a very kindhearted endearing film.

The movie begins at the wedding of Dennis (Pegg) and Libby (Thandie Newton), it quickly becomes apparent that Dennis is struggling with his decision to marry the woman of his dreams (who happens to be pregnant as well) and is last seen by many to be running as fast as he can away from the chapel, the wedding and his beloved Libby. Next thing we know, several years have passed and Dennis has become a hapless, out of shape, beer-belly toting, lingerie shop security guard. Trust me it is more bleak than even that description implies.

Dennis is sad and has never recovered from leaving Libby at the alter so he decides to make a drastic change in his life and in a misguided attempt to win her back, Dennis decides to compete in a marathon against her new Beau. A nice guy that is in impeccable shape and with minimal effort makes Dennis look really bad. Which is why it is such a great moment when you notice he is completely frustrated with the fact that Dennis seems to still have some kind of appeal to his jilted ex-fiance that also happens to be his babies momma.

I hope you followed that, if not reread it...anyway that is the basic story line of Fatboy. Schwimmer does an amazing job, especially when you consider the fact that British humor is decidedly different than American. Pegg does an admirable job as the depressed and love hungry Dennis. Newton gives an endearing turn as the still smitten jilted ex-fiance.

All in all I think just about everyone would enjoy this heart-warming, underdog tale with an undertone of forgiveness.

cah