Movie Review: Click (2006)

It’s been awhile since we’ve reviewed a movie starring Adam Sandler. Been even longer since we’ve actually looked forward to a movie starring Adam Sandler. But believe it or not, I was actually interested in watching Click. Perhaps I was hoping for comedy genius to strike again for him (see “Waterboy” or “Happy Gilmore”) — after all the premise for Click seemed ripe for the picking; an out of luck guy gets a remote control that can change ever aspect of his life. Boy oh boy could I ever be so let down.

Now don’t get me wrong, the movie isn’t particularly bad. It’s just not what I expected. Click is — gasp — actually more of tear-jerker, quasi-drama than a comedy. While there are several funny moments in the movie, it is really a heartfelt movie chronicling life and expressing how one should accept the little nuances and aggravations, as these are the things that make our lives complete. The ultimate problem, from my viewpoint, is the director (Frank Coraci) really isn’t sure which way he wants the movie to lean. Meaning, although Click is supposed to be a comedy — it doesn’t quite live up to it. And although the movie is supposed to be a drama — it doesn’t quote live up to that either.

That being said, the movie is well acted. Adam Sandler clearly tones down his typical idiot act and does surprising well (he also did well in “Punch-Drunk Love”). Christopher Walken is ALWAYS a pleasure to watch. That man simple transcends all boundaries. Kate Beckinsale should have been naked (she should ALWAYS be naked).

More importantly, Click will have you thinking about all the stupid things in your life (puking on your mother-in-law, snorting Draino, etc) and wondering whether you’d fast forward through them or plod along. Good idea, just could have been presented a bit better. For the most part, however, you’ll enjoy the movie and if you’re not careful (or if you have a body full of estrogen) you may even find your eyes welling up with tears.