Dan in Real Life

An excellent film that both makes you laugh and caresses, and whose intelligent script doesn't abuse the romantic plot for emotional blackmail, which is definitely one of the film's biggest plus points. A great Steve Carell, a charming Juliette Binoche, three daughters, none of whom are unsympathetic or otherwise annoying... Well, now I've seen what can happen during a simple family reunion. (12/04/2011)

My partner was surprised after the final credits at how I could be so cynical and give only two stars to a movie full of beautiful, likable, and positive people who love each other. Well, I can. Juliette Binoche is indeed an actress, about whom I wrote some time ago, that she could instantly be a candidate for Miss Sympathy Universe, and Steve Carell belongs among the most versatile American comedians with a wide range of acting and a cultivated manner of speech. However, Dan in Real Life is a typical representative of a sterile and undemanding spectacle - a mixture of romance and an appropriate dose of family values. It is simply too shallow, generic, and not of this world. Overall impression: 40%. (14/11/2013)

An unexpectedly excellent comedy with a great cast (Dane Cook, Juliette Binoche). For perhaps the first time I didn't mind Steve Carell either. The brisk pace added to the lightness of the film. I have to admit that I had a really good time. The family atmosphere literally absorbed me. Except for a few minor clichés, it was a relaxing film. 4 stars. (23/07/2011)

One of the coziest and most endearing romantic comedies I know, and one I love coming back to. Probably most of the credit for this goes to the casting choices, which are extremely likeable. Steve Carell is a great fit, you wish him love. I actually discovered him through this film and he immediately became one of my favorites. Juliette Binoche is very cute and her laugh must put a smile on everyone's face. My favourite Emily Blunt appears here too and the whole plot with her is endearingly comical. As I mentioned at the beginning, Dan in Real Life is a great, easygoing, authentic, and sweet film that caresses the soul. (27/04/2023)

I have the same problem with this film as with Love Actually. Both films tug at your heartstrings, both are full of annoying clichés, but for reasons unknown to me, they make me suppress my innate cynicism. If only the kids in the film hadn’t been so annoying all the time (especially the heart-to-heart with the father just before the end was enough to make me puke), I might have even thrown in a fifth star. Mainly because it’s the first time I've realized Steve Carell can do better than just comedy (sometimes of questionable quality). (24/10/2020)