Last Vegas

"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.

I went to see this film the second day after release and i wasn't sure if it would be decent... but it was hilarious! It is The Hangover old people's edition with lots of old age jokes that kept me and the whole cinema laughing all the way through!

I can see why Robert De Niro and Morgan Freeman accepted this film because they were brilliant! I had no idea Freeman could play a funny role and Robert De Niro surprised me too with his great role!

I feel all ages will love this as it is clearly meant for everybody to watch. The only problem I found with it was that it had one of those cheesy childhood plots where they link it with when they are older ruined it slightly for me but it had to have some form of a plot so i didn't mind at all.

This is definitely not another lets go to Vegas, party and end up in trouble movie. The movie is about friendship, life and how our life passes so quick that one day we think "where did it call go"? Movie also reminds us that the most important thing in life are friends.

The cast is promising - freeman, De niro etc. They do not disappoint and the movie itself is enjoyable. Definitely watchable but not the best one out there at the moment. Easily followable and you do not have to think that much.

Overall the performances are average, the story itself is nothing special.

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.

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.