I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry wants to have its cake and eat it too, and therein lies the film’s failure. The first two-thirds of the film are spent reinforcing just about every lame gay stereotype you can think of (honestly, dropping the soap in the shower? The writers were actually paid for that?), while the last act is dedicated to advocating gay rights. In the end, the film is neither effective nor convincing in either respect. Beyond a few chuckles (courtesy of Ving Rhames), there aren’t many laughs to be had. Sandler’s usual juvenile schtick is in full effect here, but unlike his previous comedies, his character in this film isn’t charming or even very likable for that matter. In fact, Sandler goes to great lengths in the movie to remind us at every available opportunity that he’s straight. To prove this, he has promiscuous orgies with interchangeable Asians, refers to homosexuals as “faggots”, and repeatedly feels up Jessica Biel (to be fair though, this scene could just be Sandler enjoying the perks of being a big movie star). Chuck, as a result, winds up being just as much of a caricature as the gay stereotypes paraded onscreen. Fairing slightly better is James, who deserves far better material than this. He at least tries to add some depth and believability to his character. Unfortunately, his efforts are buried in this mess of a movie.

Although it may have its heart in the right place, I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry isn’t nearly as funny or profound as it thinks it is. The film encourages open-mindedness towards the gay community yet contradicts its own message by presenting homosexuals as nothing more than one-dimensional flamboyant stereotypes. Adam Sandler can be genuinely hilarious, but his brand of frat-humor is ill-suited to handle the film’s high concept. Where’s Judd Apatow and co. when you need them?