Jeff, Who Lives At Home

From the directors and in the same vein as Cyrus, much of the comedy in Jeff, Who Lives At Home was the same as in Cyrus: just awkward situations that weren't really very funny.Following a small family, brothers Jeff (Jason Segel) and Pat (Ed Helms) reconnect once Jeff finally leaves their mother's (Susan Sarandon) basement. Jeff is a pretty simple man who believes in signs leading him to his destiny. Pat, on the other hand, tries to see things in the real world, is married, and not very financially smart.

First things first, I didn't think it was as funny as it could have been. Some parts, like in Cyrus, were way too awkward and just not very funny. The story itself was entertaining and it was funny often enough that I didn't really get bored and some slapstick humor made up for the parts that weren't funny. And many times the twists were predictable, but for such a short run time (83 minutes) that is expected.

The acting throughout was spot on as always. Jason Segel plays Jeff convincingly and very well, with dimwittedness and naivety, both of which become his endearing qualities during the film. Ed Helms actually plays someone that isn't completely stupid and unknowing, at least that's the way it seems for much of the movie. And of course Susan Sarandon is perfect in her role as a loving, but angry mother. 

As a whole, it could have been a lot funnier, but the story was entertaining on its own without a ton of slapstick humor, but just the right amount. If you enjoy awkward family situations and estranged brothers coming together for a common cause or even just movies about destiny you'll enjoy this dry comedy.

6.5/10