Review of I Love You, Man

I Love You, Man (2009): Dir: Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg, Lou Ferrigno: Insightful comedy about male bonding. Paul Rudd plays a bachelor who proposes to his girlfriend only to learn that he has no real male friends. Since he needs a best man he sets out to find potential buddies and realizes quickly that it isn't easy. Enter Jason Segel whom he meets at an open house event and develops a somewhat risky friendship. Fine concept renders to formula and predictable storytelling. Directed by John Hamburg who also made Along Came Polly, which also deals with friendship encounters and the struggle to maintain them. Rudd plays off the struggle of male bonding but we know the outcome and that he will get married and Segel will be right there even after his umpteenth screw up. Segel steals the show as his obnoxious friend whose lifestyle and attitude finds trouble wherever he goes. Andy Samberg steals scenes as Rudd's gay brother who works at a gym. Unfortunately Rashida Jones is underwritten as Rudd's fiancé. She is basically there to reassure Rudd and stand veiled and ready on wedding day. Lou Ferrigno makes an appearance as himself and ends up in a fight with Segel. Although it can be seen as a chick flick, it still holds appeal to male viewers with its theme. It is an ideal comedy about forming lasting friendships. Score: 6 ½ / 10