The latest romantic comedy from the Working Title production line, Definitely, Maybe got a little forgotten on its original cinematic release in early 2008. Yet beneath the covers here is a smart, enjoyable film, that does Ryan Reynolds' potential as a romantic lead no harm whatsoever.
The story of Definitely, Maybe is mainly told in flashback, as Reynolds' daughter in the film (played by Little Miss Sunshine's Abigal Breslin) quizzes him as to how he met his mother, who he’s in the process of getting a divorce from. Reynolds' tale follows three failed romances, and the film holds back on revealing the answer to its mysteries until pretty much the final reel.
Deftly written and directed by Adam Brooks (who previously had scribing credits on Practical Magic, Wimbledon and Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason, among others), Definitely, Maybe has several factors in its corner. Firstly, the script is witty, well layered, and engaging. Secondly, the casting is good, too. Reynolds is in good form here, and Elizabeth Banks, Isla Fisher and Rachel Weisz turn in fine performances as the three women in his life. And finally, while only slightly outstaying its welcome, Definitely, Maybe achieves a satisfying balance of wit and romance, and then manages to squeeze in a great Kevin Kline cameo on top. Can't be bad.
It may not be talked about in the same breath as other Working Title successes such as Notting Hill and Love Actually, yet Definitely, Maybe is very worthy of DVD discovery. With good rewatch value too, it's a recommended buy. --Simon Brew