Nadine in Dateland follows the well-worn groove of many a past romantic comedy. It's so typical that you will have no problem predicting what will come next. If the characters weren't so appealing the film would be completely mediocre. However, Janene Garofalo definitely helps the movie out with her goofy loser of a character who can give other people great advice about relationships but fails utterly at them herself.
Brad Rowe as the object of her affections is nothing special but rather charmingly ordinary. Swoosie Kurtz definitely chews scenery as Janene's avaricious mother but actresses of Kurtz's stature chew it with such panache. Finally, I must mention Julie Claire who plays the "scheming other woman". While Claire's performance doesn't break new ground, it is refreshing to see a character with so much self-confidence that she doesn't bother to disguise her malice. Magda(the character) is nasty but she's got such style that you can ALMOST understand why Rowe's character would be attracted to her.
Ultimately, if your expectations aren't too high, you'll enjoy the film. Just don't expect too much.
Brad Rowe as the object of her affections is nothing special but rather charmingly ordinary. Swoosie Kurtz definitely chews scenery as Janene's avaricious mother but actresses of Kurtz's stature chew it with such panache. Finally, I must mention Julie Claire who plays the "scheming other woman". While Claire's performance doesn't break new ground, it is refreshing to see a character with so much self-confidence that she doesn't bother to disguise her malice. Magda(the character) is nasty but she's got such style that you can ALMOST understand why Rowe's character would be attracted to her.
Ultimately, if your expectations aren't too high, you'll enjoy the film. Just don't expect too much.