happythankyoumoreplease (6.5/10)

Let's break down Josh Radnor's first time writing/directing/major role film. This way we can analyze the film and Radnor's talent to the field for what it it, an interesting future. Radnor known for his role as Ted Mosby on How I Met Your Mother (one of the best shows currently on TV) tries his attempt at the big screen. It's not a bad attempt, but I feel practice makes perfect. He needs work but this is a nice first attempt.

The film tells three stories of six people dealing with relationships. Plus one more character to make for a whimsical time. However those expectations are never truly met because nothing really happens. I often say some film's drag, meaning they establish plot, but getting to the conclusion/pay-off is not great. This film likes drive, an actual plot is to vacant to show a pay-off. Radnor plays Sam, a struggling writer who takes in a small child after seeing him getting separated from his caretaker. This is dangerously close to the "magical black guy" element where said person changes the life of a struggling white guy (think "The Legend Of Bagger Vance"). However due to Radnor's natural Allen/Seinfeld/Braff charm he gets away with it. Sam meets Mississippi (Kate Mara) and the two begin sort of seeing each other. Radnor's script seems cocky with how easy it is for him, but a bold move he plays makes things more believable and interesting. He suggests a three night stand rather than one, not a bad idea. Another couple is Annie (Malin Akerman stealing the show) and Sam #2 (A very likable Tony Hale). She has alopecia and believes that Sam #2 is too dorky for her. When in reality he is a sweet guy that will help her overcome her commitment fear. The third couple is kind of thrown in there, but do have some nice scenes. They are Mary (Zoe Kazan) and Charlie (Pablo Schreiber) who are having trouble deciding whether to move to LA or stay in NYC and whether that means breaking up or so.

The film lacks the push to make it something memorable. There is also the short story factor. The three stories feel like different short stories that don't add up to one full feature length movie. Which ironic because it's said Sam is said to be a great short story writer but can't make a good book. Radnor has a bright future if he learns from his past work. I think this is a nice stepping off point to a bright future.

6.5/10
Recommendation: Like a poor man's How I Met Your Mother meets "Garden State". Not as great as those but still not bad.