In Canada We Say Cracking The Cheese

The Promotion

Every once in a while you rent a movie and it not only doesn’t suck, but it kicks ass. The Promotion is just that kind of film. The story is very simple. Two guys going after the same job go after each other to get it. The great thing about this film is that it resisted the urge to make one guy a dick or an insufferable bastard. Both characters are sympathetic and while they are each kind of crazy, their insanity is of a mundane nature which is both totally believable and identifiable.

It doesn’t hurt that John C. Reilly and Sean William Scott play the two leads. Scott is a great everyman under pressure. His previous roles never let him perform up to his comedic potential, but in this film every indignity Scott’s character is forced to suffer is written all over his face. We feel for him, but we can’t help but laugh that his misfortunes aren’t our own. It is Scott’s character that narrates the film and through his character we see how desperation can make even a well intentioned man crack at the seems. John C, on the other hand plays a Canadian and Scott’s rival for the position of full manager of the new branch of Donaldsons grocery store. As a polite recovering addict from Canada his character shows us how good manners and a kind word for everyone can also be insidious and treacherous. As each man becomes more and more fixated on achieving his goal of the promotion his behavior becomes more cutthroat. The fact that everything they do to each other is perfectly believable only increases the cold-blooded nature of their competition.

A great supporting cast including Jenna Fisher, Lilly Taylor and Jason Bateman give the film a great reality that roots the story in everyday life. This is a very funny movie that in turns will have you laughing and squirming in your seat embarrassed for what its characters must endure. This is a must rent and a solid buy.

You should rent this movie if

1. You enjoy comedies where real people do real things that just happen to be funny.
2. You enjoyed the American version of the office.
3. You enjoyed Election or The Weatherman.
4. If you work for a living.

You should buy this movie if

1. You are big into John C. Reilly.
2. Blapples
3. Jason Bateman.

If you are interested in buying this DVD here is a link to Amazon where you can get it at a reasonable price: