She's Out of My League

Some half-way decent character comedy props up this otherwise pretty frivolous outing that marks burgeoning star Jay Baruchel’s first cinematic leading role.

Baruchel has appeared in numerous Judd Apatow projects, so it’s no huge surprise that this film is clearly influenced by the Apatow style. This is particularly true in the scenes featuring our protagonist Kirk and his three buddies, which comprise the best moments of the film. They dissect their pal’s good fortune with an Apatow-esque mixture of sweetness and foulness. The fact that none of these four actors are particularly recognisable only helps their easy chemistry.

The chemistry doesn’t flow quite as easily between Baruchel and his leading lady, Brit Alice Eve (Starter for 10). The premise hinges on her genuinely liking Kirk but the film never displays any real rapport between the two, save for a perfunctory date montage. Eve acquits herself with dignity, but she is constantly upstaged by perennial 'best friend' co-star Krysten Ritter (Confessions of a Shopaholic).

Although the film sells itself as a bawdy comedy, there are only two gross out moments; both were revealed in the trailer and seem out of place in the finished movie.

Despite its shortcomings, She’s Out Of My League remains amiable enough and Baruchel shows that he can carry a movie. It’s worthy of several chuckles and a snicker or two, but there are no guffaws to be found here.