Reviewer's Rating 3 out of 5 Μύ
The Whole Nine Yards (2000)
12

"Friends" star Matthew Perry does a big screen version of his TV character as a dentist who gets embroiled with a local hitman in this slapstick comedy.

As successful as they are on the small screen, the cast of "Friends" have been far from triumphant when it comes to the movies. Lisa Kudrow and Courteney Cox are doing pretty well, but as for the boys? Well, did you see "Ed"? No, thought not.

In "The Whole Nine Yards", Chandler, sorry Perry, plays Oz, a nervy dentist with a bitch of a wife. One day, a new resident moves into his cosy neighbourhood - none other than Jimmy Tudeski (Willis), a well-known mobster. Understandably anxious, Oz tries to stay away, but only succeeds in getting caught up with Jimmy after he finds out that his wife has asked Jimmy to assassinate him.

A complex farce begins to unfold, as Oz travels to Chicago with the aim of shopping Jimmy, only to fall in love with Jimmy's sexy missus Cynthia (Henstridge). Double-cross, triple-cross - all manner of crosses occur as the characters wittingly and unwittingly plan to kill, save, or marry the others.

It's a slim film, but there are some undeniably enjoyable moments, mostly derived from Perry's effective pratfalling. Straying not very far from his best-loved creation, Perry has undoubted comedic timing, which combined with vast amounts of gesticulation, often makes for a lot of fun.

Also, watch out for the delicious Peet as Oz's assistant-cum-saviour. If casting agents - and mens' magazines - aren't busting down their doors to sign her up after this showing, there's no justice in the world.

End Credits

Director: Jonathan Lynn

Writer: Mitchell Kapner

Stars: Bruce Willis, Matthew Perry, Rosanna Arquette, Michael Clarke Duncan, Natasha Henstridge, Amanda Peet, Kevin Pollak, Harland Williams

Genre: Comedy, Crime

Length: 99 minutes

Cinema: 2000

DVD: 20 November 2000

VHS: 13 November 2000

Country: US

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