Release Date: 3/11/08

The Film

Every now and then, my softer side needs to come out and as a result, I end up enjoying a sappy romantic comedy. Even then, not any movie will do, as my tastes still require some semblance of a story that is somewhat engaging with some witty dialogue. Dan in Real Life hit the spot nicely combining romantic comedy qualities that tug on the heart with some soft comedic moments that get me giggling. If only all films in the genre were like this, I’d maybe entertain a few more in my personal DVD library.

Steve Carrell plays the lovable father of three daughters, Dan Burns, an advice columnist who can’t seem to get his own life together. How fitting it is that the columnist on the verge of national syndication has a horrible love life after 4 years since the death of his wife and two daughters that seem to be drifting further and further away from him. Things take a turn for the surreal on a family reunion weekend in Rhode Island when Dan meets and falls for a woman in a bookstore. Unbeknownst to him, that woman is the same woman his brother, Mitch (Dane Cook), is about to introduce as his new girlfriend. Packed full of hilarious awkward moments and heart warming moments of family bonding, the film really strikes a perfect note throughout the entire experience with what we humans call love.

The DVD

The main menu comes with a short introduction and offers music from the soundtrack playing in the background. Transitions lead into submenus with music with static stills.

The video is offered in 1.85:1 Widescreen Format. Throughout the film, it’s a crapshoot as far as clarity and detail. There are also moments when flaws and black lines would appear, but it’s held to a minimum. Overall, the picture is decent even if it appears a little flat.

The audio is offered in English Dolby Digital 5.1, French Dolby Digital 2.0, and Spanish Dolby Digital 2.0. The sound is exceptional with the soundtrack coming through strong and clean. The dialogue also holds up well which is important for a film of this nature. There are also some minor moments of positional sound, but that’s really just for doors slamming. Subtitles are available English, French, and Spanish.

The Extras

The DVD comes in a single standard Amaray case encased within an embossed cardboard slipcase.

Audio Commentary is provided by writer/director Peter Hedges.

Just Like Family runs about 15-minutes and offers a standard making of piece that includes interviews with the cast and crew.

Handmade Music: Creating the Score offers a 10-minute feature that includes interviews with the crew and film’s composer, Sondre Lerche.

The bonus options round out with 11 Deleted Scenes with a Play All option and optional director’s commentary. A 3-minute Outtakes reel is also included within the bonus options.

Final Thoughts

I can’t say I’m a huge fan of Carrell’s more serious work, but Dan in Real Life did a great job of fusing together elements of comedy and romance. Striking a balance between mainstream and independent films, the movie will do well to entertain on one of those days where you need a pick-me-up.

- Morris Tang