Seen on: July 6, 2009

The players: Director: Chris Columbus, Writer: Larry Doyle, Cast: Hayden Panettiere, Paul Rust, Lauren Storm, Jack T. Carpenter

Facts of interest: Based on Larry Doyle's book.

The plot: A high school's hottest chick shows a nerd the best time of his life after he publicly declares his love for her.

Our thoughts: Chris Columbus goes all raunchy on us in his latest comedy “I Love You, Beth Cooper,” an occasionally amusing film that lacks big laughs and surprises but can still be fairly enjoyable to watch. Columbus is a well-known filmmaker with some high-profile titles under his belt, but I don’t expect this one to pull large audiences.

Based on the novel by Larry Doyle, the film centers on Denis Cooverman (Paul Rust), a nerdy valedictorian who surprises everyone during graduation when he publicly declares his love for Beth Cooper (Hayden Panettiere), one of the hottest chicks in school. Only problem: Beth pretty much had no clue Denis even existed.

Much to his surprise, however, Beth and two of her friends show up at his door later that day, and before he knows it, Denis finds himself embarking on the best night of his life. Reckless driving, a wild party and several perilous run-ins with Beth’s bulky, aggressive boyfriend (Shawn Roberts) are just some of the things this night’s got in store for him.

“Cooper” is a film about taking chances and exploring new territories, and although the plot remains predictable throughout, it does an okay job at exploring a character who discovers a whole new side of teenage life. Beth shows Denis what it means to be fun, and he shows her what it means to be loved.

Needles to say, they soon warm up to each other, and you can guess how it all eventually plays out. The road to the finale, however, is not as hilarious as I expected. The film’s humor is vulgar at times but never too risky, and although I admit I briefly smiled here and there, most of the gags didn’t work that well.

The film’s second act is definitely more boring than its first, and a bunch of jokes sadly end up making some scenes more awkward than funny. Hayden Panettiere (yeah, she looks great) and Paul Rust share a decent onscreen chemistry here, but they occasionally struggle with their comic timing.

Freaky quote: "Still love me?" – Hayden Panettiere

The final word: In the end, Denis’ night is a whole lot wilder and more exciting for him than it is for cinemagoers. “I Love You, Beth Cooper” boasts a few refreshing moments and a good soundtrack, but the film’s plot is a tad too monotonous for my taste.

As director, Columbus certainly knows what he’s doing, but you would expect something funnier from the guy who brought you “Home Alone,” “Mrs. Doubtfire” and the first two “Harry Potter” flicks. Sorry Beth, I didn’t entirely fall for you.

Article by Franck Tabouring