Last Vegas

Only 47% on Rotten Tomatoes? Sheesh. Its not high-art, but compared to other recent comedies I've seen, Last Vegas was Prince Charming. Other movies are just obnoxious with man-child characters and ridiculous situations. But with four Oscar-winning actors and solid writing, our aging gang felt quite real to me, while still being amusing.

The movie was funny, but also had a nice touch of drama. Each of our characters had importance in the story, and their own issues associated with aging. And when all is done, you feel glad they had a good time, and have come to terms with their life.

Is there a few too many old people jokes? Of course. Are some of the jokes already dated? Yeah, LMFAO and 50 Cent aren't going to be timeless, Muppet Movie-style cameos. Is the plot predicable? Arguably, but c'mon, its a comedy!

I enjoyed it quite a bit. Since comedy movies aren't my preference, I'm willing to give it the benefit of the doubt and give it a solid 7. Consider renting it.

"The love of our private friends is the only preparatory exercise for the love of all men." John Henry Cardinal Newman

Last Vegas is promoted by some as a geriatric Hangover; it's not quite. It's rather a sometimes poignant if lighthearted comedy about friendship and love with a dash of philosophizing about growing old. Three sixty- something buddies have a bachelor party in Las Vegas for their equally aging buddy who is marrying a babe over half his age.

The usual bachelor party tropes are there: swimming pools, buxom girls, extravagant digs, gambling, drunken partying, and pappy love, among others. But lacing through this usually freewheeling, adolescent humored romp of a cliché are some thoughts about their 60 years of friendship and what it brings and demands.

Most importantly is the rivalry between Billy (Michael Douglas) and Paddy (Robert De Niro) over the girl who got away from Billy and married Paddy. How her death affects their friendship is touching if not overly sentimental but real as it continues to color their lives to this day. How it shapes the weekend and Billy's marriage takes the film beyond Hangover and Bridesmaids.

Absent are scatological humor or retching; those staples of current buddy comedies are not in the least missed. Each other friend has his issue as well: Sam (Kevin Kline) his true love for his wife, who gives him Viagra and a condom for the trip; and Archie (Morgan Freeman) his over solicitous son. Director John Turteltaub and writer Dan Fogelman treat the hang-ups with gentleness, never extending to slapstick the important challenge of each life brought into relief by the trip.

Last Vegas is a diverting enjoyment, most of which is watching highly successful actors as if they've worked together forever, when in fact they never did. Movie magic and friendship themes make this a comfort film among too much glitz on other screens.

While this is not just a movie for the "over 50" crowd, it definitely plays toward them. It was definitely much funnier than "The Guilt Trip," and not quite as predictable. The actors were, of course, playing the roles they were made for (and I wish Kevin Kline would do more, along with Morgan Freedman.) I will say, Michael Douglas looked awful, primarily because his skin tone was so orange. The beginning riff on Kevin Kline's life was hysterical, and his final action (or lack thereof) you saw coming a mile away. However, the secret story between DeNaro & Douglas was good, and I wasn't quite sure in the beginning which way Mary Steenburgen was going to jump. (By the way, is it a law in Hollywood that all actresses must get a face lift?) Anyway, if you want a "feel good" movie with a good moral message and many a chuckle plus a few gaffaws, go see Last Vegas.

Without being nasty or vulgar, LAST VEGAS is humorous and heartfelt. This movie celebrates friendship, especially among four friends who have known each other for more than 50 years. The camaraderie exhibited by these stars is enviable as well as appreciated. They have enjoyed much and suffered much in their lives, apart and together. The movie doesn't dwell on the negative, but it does unfold at a comfortable pace. The actors are perfect for their roles, and each relishes the part he plays. The supporting actors are able to enjoy their time on screen, whether it is for five or fifty minutes. This movie is about family, too, and grown children might understand their parents better seeing this film with or without them.

This is definitely a movie for mature audiences - children will not understand some of the jokes, and parents will become red faced explaining them. In fact, children will probably want to avoid this movie at all costs. Young people from 18 to 30 may not appreciate the depth of the friendships exhibited by these four friends, and they may misunderstand the difficulty of these "old folks" performing some of the day to day antics that they take for granted: dancing, drinking, picking up women. Getting old is neither easy nor fun, but it beats the alternative!

Some may refer to this as HANGOVER on Viagra. I prefer to think of it as "HOW TO ENJOY OLD AGE WITH A BANG." Or maybe it's a first - not last - hurrah to be repeated annually by anyone over 60.

The buddy comedy genre has entertained audiences for years, and "Last Vegas" adds a unique flavor by following the adventures of four childhood friends on a vacation. With a mix of humor and unexpected twists, the film takes a fresh approach, centering around four retired buddies throwing a bachelor party in the dazzling city of Las Vegas.

As anticipated, Las Vegas serves as a sensational backdrop, allowing the talented cast to shine. Morgan Freeman once again showcases his versatility and undeniable talent amidst the stellar ensemble. The charming chemistry between Diana (Mary Steenburgen) and Billy (Michael Douglas) adds an endearing touch to the story.

Last Vegas" is a satisfying watch. It offers plenty of laughs although it could have benefited from more significant conflicts. Surprisingly, there is absence of antagonists, and it is a loophole, there are very few conflicts.

I would rate it 7.5/10 for delivering an enjoyable experience. While a more substantial conflict beyond the issues between best friends could have added depth, it still stands as a commendable buddy comedy, though not the absolute best in its genre.