Inevitably, I'm going to compare any new Jim Carrey comedy to the Ace Ventura flicks, Liar Liar, and Dumb & Dumber, my favorites of his career. While I don't think Yes Man has as many laughs per minute as those films, it's definitely worth seeing if you're a Carrey fan.Carl (Carrey) has been in a funk since his divorce, and despite his friends' best efforts, he finds creative excuses to avoid any social gathering. But after attending what amounts to a say-yes-to-anything seminar, Carl's life is suddenly full. Naturally, this mentality provides ample opportunity for humor, though Carl isn't nearly as manic as some of Carrey's earlier characters. Other than Carl's alcohol and Red Bull binges, he is basically an extroverted, lovable smart ass after finding "yes." Carrey certainly had plenty of one-liners in my favorites too, but his delivery in Yes Man is generally much more dry than in his previous films.
Zooey Deschanel, who plays Carl's love interest, Allison, should be getting more work after this movie. She was charming, funny, beautiful, and it wasn't difficult to imagine her quirky character falling for Carl's insanity. She has a different appeal than your typical female lead, and I found it refreshing.
Ultimately, Yes Man didn't live up to my wildest expectations, but if you're looking for a tolerable date movie, this is it. Carrey has plenty of good lines, the ladies should enjoy the love story, and the overall message is uplifting.
