Larry Crowne: Reinvent Yourself

When Larry Crowne comes to the "parting of the ways" with the big box U Mart store, his world comes crashing down. His already minimalist lifestyle becomes even more spartan as he finds he can no longer afford his gas-guzzling SUV or a mortgage. Middle age, a down economy, and the lack of a college degree force Larry to into attending classes at his local community college.

At first glance Larry Crowne is a light-hearted comedy as the films' main character deals with the new and perplexing situations he's dealt. As the film progresses, elements of romance, diversity, and old and new friendships are touched upon. In the end Larry Crowne is a comedic documentary of a man who reinvents himself with the help of new and supportive friends. He even comes away a new name.

In the film, Larry Crowne (Tom Hanks) is laid off and then enrolls in his local community college upon the advice of his next-door neighbor Lamar (Cedric the Entertainer). He purchases a scooter to save on commuting expenses only to discover new friends within a local scooter gang. Talia (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), classmate and scooter gang member, reshapes Larry and offers encouragement to explore new avenues.

In his public speaking class, Larry meets the foundering college professor Mercedes Tainot (Julia Roberts). During economics class, modern technology causes the pompous and somewhat demented Dr. Matsutani (George Takei) to stalk Larry. Overt references to Star Trek, innuendos, and double entendres weave in and out of the film. The line "I hope Mr. Matsutani doesn't want to have the same conversation with me" had the entire audience roaring.

Scooterists will recognize many familiar elements within Larry Crowne. A scooter bought to save on gas money leads to the discovery of scooter culture. Scooters are fun to ride and even more cool when you ride together with friends. Scooters of every shape, make, model, vintage, and color make an appearance. After the movie, a member of my scooter group commented "I saw my scooter in the movie!!!".

The soundtrack to Larry Crowne is filled will rock classics that match the action. Tracks from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Electric Light Orchestra, and Billy Squier resonate throughout the film. After listening to an advanced copy of the movie soundtrack - I love it!

While Larry Crowne flirts around the boundaries of a chic flick, most audiences will enjoy this recession themed comedy. An advance screening audience of several hundred people in Denver, Colorado laughed throughout the entire film. It won't win any Academy Awards for drama but Larry Crowne is a fun way to spend a hot summer night.

Larry Crowne opens nationwide in the USA on July 1, 2011. The movie is rated PG-13 and is 1 hour 39 minutes long. From Universal Studios.

It's a two thumbs up scooter flick in my book.

Sources:

Denver , Colorado advance screening June 28, 2011

http://www.larrycrowne.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uS155D2HlwY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mc_pTKu9Zt0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KE7aUcWYBM&feature=relmfu

http://daysailer1.com/2011/06/25/scooter-riders-see-the-new-larry-crowne-movie-for-free/