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Going the Distance is a well crafted look at an all too common relationship hurdle. Long distance relationships are never an easy thing. Not even Casey Kasem and his dedications could make the miles seem shorter. So in the new romantic comedy from director Nanette Burstein it only makes sense that the two main characters would run into all sorts of problems. 
 
Garrett (Justin Long) is a frustrated music label rep in NY who falls for a college journalism major on the west coast. Erin (Drew Barrymore) is just as discouraged with her lack of career options that keep her and Garrett apart. So they have to find other ways to keep the love alive. These include lots of flying, texting, and late night phone conversations. But no matter how advanced technology becomes it never can replace the simplicity of a subtle hand holding. 
 
This film was incredibly funny and well written. Long and Barrymore both seemed to be enjoying their characters which made the delivery relaxed and genuine. The humor and jokes never felt forced or out of synch. Plus the two have an obvious on screen chemistry that is always a vital element. They might have been able to relax and allow their characters to breath due to the tremendous supporting cast. There are no weak links in this one. Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day play Garrett’s best friends and they both deliver one sidesplitting home run after another. Christina Applegate is spot on as Erin’s uptight, over protective sister who isn’t too happy with Garrett or the relationship. 
 
Even though this is a romantic comedy most of the humor revolves around Garrett and his two friends. Their conversations and outlook on dating and relationships provide a bulk of the laughs. This allows the film to cross over into the buddy film genre while never losing the romantic comedy foundation. Most young couples will find elements in this that are relatable to the current dating scene. Guys will find that they have much to laugh at and are not simply being drug to a cookie cutter kissie fest. 
 
Be advised though! Going the Distance is rated R for sexual content including dialogue, language throughout, some drug use and brief nudity. This is certainly not for those 18 and younger. The dialogue especially is very mature. I would even go so far as to say that couples on a first date may find much of the banter and situations a little awkward. There are a lot of crude jokes that will offend most of those who prefer their romantic comedies in the PG or PG-13 target. It pushes the envelope and this will turn off many. I say all that to say; be very careful who you see this with and if you are going as a group make sure that everyone is comfortable in this type setting. Though incredibly funny and sweetly romantic, it certainly will not be everyone’s cup of tea. I give Going the Distance 4 out of 5 frequent flier miles. The acting, script and directing all came together perfectly and made for a solid comedy. 
 
Matt Mungle
 

 
Review copyright 2010 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.