Credited cast: | |||
Brigid Brannagh | ... | Hayley Richmonde | |
Tony Hale | ... | Stefan Lane | |
Timothy V. Murphy | ... | Finneas Patrick O'Neill | |
Nick Thune | ... | Norm Getz | |
John Kapelos | ... | Kevork Sarkissian | |
K Callan | ... | Toogey Richmonde | |
Erin Way | ... | Christine | |
Tanc Sade | ... | Tyler | |
Nan McNamara | ... | Mary | |
Ronnie Steadman | ... | Ron | |
Clinton Pickens | ... | Erik | |
Chloe Babbes | ... | Chloe | |
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Matthew Iott | ... | Randy (as Matt Iott) |
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Greg Castle | ... | Wes |
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Paul Moorhead | ... | Improv host |
A love story about a woman who "just wants someone who makes her laugh" and a man who is not that funny. As he tries to learn how to be the man she says she wants, they each find an unexpected chance at happiness. Written by Lauralee Farrer
This bubble-light romantic comedy is worth seeking out. Tony Hale—in his first leading role I think—plays Stefan, a typical lovelorn Hollywood movie type who will do anything for the girl, eh-em, woman of his dreams to fall in love with him. Or at least notice him more. In this case, Stefan has overheard Hayley (Brigid Brannagh) stating she just wants a man that can make her laugh. Stefan knows he is not funny, so he seeks advice from friends, the Internet, and even stalks a comic. What makes Not That Funny work—and so enjoyable—is it smartly stays away from the traps of most romantic comedies. For example, Stefan learns a joke we know is not going to work. We don't get the obligatory scene where it falls flat and a lesson is learned. In fact, there's a lot obligatory trappings of the modern romantic comedy that are not seen or dwelled on in Not that Funny. Thanks goes to writer-director Lauralee Farrer and co-writer Jonathan Foster. The script—like the main character —is smart and likable, earnest and fair. It does a wonderful job in showcasing some character actors you've seen before and allows Hale— still best known as Buster on Arrested Development—a rare chance to showcase a grounded hero you'd invite over for dinner. Despite a paper- thin budget, Farrer and cinematographer Brandon Lippard deliver a beautiful looking valentine to the town of Sierra Madre (near Pasadena) and a remarkable house that is so functional it becomes another character.