Beystiman It's fun, it's light, [but] it has a hard time when its tries to get heavy.

CrawlerChunky In truth, there is barely enough story here to make a film.

Casey Duggan It’s sentimental, ridiculously long and only occasionally funny

Kayden This is a dark and sometimes deeply uncomfortable drama

Amy Adler Henry (Billy Crudup) is an odd bird and then some. Admittedly, having OCD is a handicap to anyone but H is also insulting, crude, and hard. It is indeed a great stroke of luck that he is a talented writer, which was recognized by his only pal, Rudy (Tom Wilkinson). An artist, Rudy worked, undeterred, in forming a collaboration with Henry on a hit series of children's books about a beaver named Martin. At book signings, though, Rudy has to keep a close watch on H, for he often ends up insulting those eager to buy his work, even kids. Sadly, just as the two friends are working on a Christmas book, Rudy develops a brain tumor and dies. Now, their editor is in dire straits. He must finish this book, to save his own neck and that of Henry, too. So, without much choice, this editor finds another illustrator, Lucy (Mandy Moore) who is talented enough to continue the look of Martin's character. But, horrors! With Henry a problem child, who discourages Lucy at their initial meetings, how will there be any hope of a finished book? Lucy is offered even more money to endure Henry's whims, money she desperately needs. Also, there are two other problems. One, an old flame of Lucy's, Jeremy (Martin Freeman) returns to try to win her back, making Henry jealous, yes, jealous! Also, Henry keeps talking and consulting Rudy every day, in his mind. When will he let go? This, obviously, is a complicated film with honorable themes. Henry's distinct personality disorders are to be pitied yet his prickly and seemingly uncaring attitude make it difficult for others to like him. Lucy is no different. As the two main characters, Crudup and Moore do wonderful work indeed. Wilkinson shines as well; in fact, I don't believe this gentleman could give a bad performance ever. All of the supporting crew, including Diane Wiest, are fine, also. As for the Manhattan sets, they are always welcome while costumes, photography, script and direction have their strong points, too. In fact, the story is a great look into the reality of life in Henry's world. Therefore, those seeking a glimpse into the affliction of OCD would benefit from a view. But, in addition, fans of romantic comedy and/or drama, even in the most offbeat of circumstances, will likewise be glad they brought this one home.

politically_incorrect204 I just watched this film and have to say it is one of the most endearing films I've seen in a long time. Think of it as "Mozart and the Whale" but more painful and more true life problems and neuroses, but also more heartwarming. Billy Crudup does a great job as the self-hating and world-hating pessimist in this movie. His wonderful portrayal of such an awful, yet complicated character, makes it all the more enjoyable to see him come around and finally warm up to someone. I've seen Mandy Moore in films before and thought shes always been a better actress then people give her credit for, and this film goes to show that. This is Justin Thoreaux's directorial debut and a wonderful one at that. The writing is superb and the directing and acting only lend to the wonderful script. Tom Wilkinson gives another wonderful performance as he always does. If you want to see a film that'll make you laugh despite hating the characters at times, but some how still miraculously fall in love with them and root for them, then this is definitely the movie for you. It isn't your usual romantic comedy, and putting it that genre is a stretch in itself, but it is one of the smartest and most warm hearted movies you'll see this year.

bellejour This is a wonderful film with characters that touch the hearts of anyone who has ever known or been close to someone with a severe depression, anxiety disorder or real neurosis. Although Dedication can be considered a romantic comedy genre film, and may follow a somewhat conventional type of narrative, the actors breathe life into this story that in itself is a love letter to New York. NYC is a character in itself in the film, which is not to be overlooked. I loved this movie and think it is an amazing effort for Mr. Theroux. I am excited to see what his next project will be, considering this was a script he obviously acquired somehow, and didn't pen himself. "I think that hate is a thing, a feeling, that can only exist where there is no understanding." TENNESSEE WILLIAMS, Forward to Sweet Bird of Youth

imdbob-2 Calling this a "romantic comedy" could scare off a lot of people who hate the term, and the recent Hollywood films of that genre.In true indie fashion, this film creates a romantic comedy with jarring bits of editing, amazing music that you'll either love or kinda hate (it's as jarring at times as the editing), and a lead performance that begs you to hate the guy.But like the best pearls come out of gritty sand that irritate the clam (or oyster?...obviously didn't take marine science in school), and yes, I probably was prompted to write that analogy after 2 key beach scenes in this film....this film's eventual path to being an odd romantic comedy makes it stand out from the pack.If true love can develop between a woman and a guy who's got seeeeerious issues, then there's hope for anyone. Billy Crudup, like other roles I've seen him tackle, can't act bland to save his life. But that makes for some interesting characters. And in this one he doesn't disappoint.Mandy Moore is practically a bona fide movie star with this film. Through the film, she seems one step away from being a goth-like illustrator scraping her way through life with her talent, and she certainly isn't ready for love either. But when these 2 do connect, the result is all the sweeter.The music is pretty incredible...and other performances like Tom Wilkinson's and Bob Balaban's and Dianne Weist's score as well. To think this is actor Justin Theroux's first film shows incredible promise from him. Show me a recent film debut by an established actor-turned-director with as much moxie as this. (Maybe Zach Braff with "GARDEN STATE"...but this out-moxies that one.) Oh and by the way, I was at the same NYC premiere that the other commentator on here was at. Unlike him, I'm not vying to be the next writer who has to be creatively bitchy in his prose. I'm here to say that though this film might not work for everyone, it'll work for the majority of people who seek it out.And since I saw this film as a pearl that comes out of grittiness...I can be creative too and say that for that viewer, this was a pearl before a swine.