Jersey Girl (2004)

Once Again, Ben Affleck's Character Learns That True Success Lies With Love And Family Rather Than In Fame And Fortune

"Jersey Girl" is a great romantic comedy starring Ben Affleck as Ollie Trinke, a successful workaholic. However, this film is sadder than most romantic comedies because Ollie loses his wife (Jennifer Lopez of "The Wedding Planner and "Maid in Manhattan) while she is giving birth to their daughter, Gertrude. He later loses his career when he insults Will Smith who has a cameo in the movie. Knocked off his lofty pedestal, Ollie is forced to humble himself by moving back home with his alcoholic father (super comedian George Carlin) and earn a living by cleaning streets. Eventually he meets spunky video store clerk, played by the beautiful Liv Tyler ("Lord of the Rings" trilogy).

Affleck and Tyler have been romantically paired together before. They were lovers in the great disaster film "Armageddon." Interesting enough, Liv Tyler's megastar father, Steve Tyler, sung the lead song for "Armageddon," which was a very romantic ballad titled "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing." In "Jersey Girl," Liv Tyler sings part of a song from Sweeney Todd at Gertrude's school on talent night. I didn't realize she could sing; it was a genuine treat.

"Jersey Girl" reminded me of "Raising Helen," which starred Kate Hudson as Helen Harris. Helen is a fun-loving single who is forced to become a parent overnight when her sister and brother-in-law are accidentally killed. Likewise, Ollie Trinke is forced to become a single parent when he isn't ready for the additional responsibility.

Ollie Trinke reminded me of Drew Latham (also played by Ben Affleck) of "Surviving Christmas." Drew is a rich, successful advertiser who learns that love and family are more important than wealth. This lonely man tries to "buy" a family for the holidays. He soon learns that you can't buy love. Ollie Trinke also learns that money doesn't buy happiness. It comes from being with your family.

The ending for "Jersey Girl" reminded me of the one for "Life or Something Like It." Angelina Jolie (in one of her better roles) is a successful reporter who is faced with a career decision that will take her away from friends and family.

Overall, the movie was great. The foul language could've been toned down. The movie had some really sad, grim moments, but it had some hilarious ones as well. It is a must see for anyone who loves good romantic comedies or is a fan of one of its many star actors.
April 23, 2008

Don't listen to critics, this is a great movie

Kevin Smith got panned for this flick, but that is only because everyone was expecting Jay and Silent Bob to show up and start telling fart jokes. This is a good flick, despite all the negative reviews this movie got. It does have some really funny moments, however the flick is primarily about the main character's transition into a completely different type of life. Some of George Carlin's best acting is in this film. Most people will probably enjoy this flick, so long as they don't go in expecting "Clerks 3" or something similar. March 23, 2008

Terrific Family Style Comedy/Drama!

I salute Kevin Smith for putting together this film. It is nice to see Kevin doing Family Entertainment as well. I have also seen Dogma by Kevin Smith and loved it too. But that is strictly an adult comedy.
Jersey Girl is a cross between comedy and drama. I highly recommend this film to anyone! The overall acting in this film is stupendous! Jason Biggs did a a remarkable job acting in this film. He also did a great job acting in the movie Dogma. It was refreshing seeing Ben Affleck in a more serious role and Jennifer Lopez was good in her role. Liv Tyler is an up and coming star and was very cute in this film.
I think this movie has been highly underrated and hope that everyone will take the time to see it, even once. Besides, the price of this film is unbeatable.
Here is a BIG thanks to Kevin Smith for enlightening and entertaining the public with another great comedy!!!! And the puns on Sweeney Todd (one of my favorite musicals--I am a HUGE fan of Stephen Sondheim) were PRICELESS!!!!! January 28, 2008

Super movie

This movie is sweet and funny. A little sad at times, but a happy ending. January 2, 2008

Great!

I just saw it for the first time, 7-2007. I had tears in my eyes for an hour. Beautiful story. Do another one, continue the story. July 15, 2007

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