REWIND REVIEW: Identity Thief

MOVIE
Identity Thief

CAST
Jason Bateman,
Melissa McCarthy

RATING
R

RELEASE
February 8, 2013

DIRECTOR
Seth Gordon

STUDIO
Universal Pictures

RUNNING TIME
1 hour 51 minutes






STARS
*1/2








REVIEW:

Considering the talent involved with this film, "Identity Thief" turns out to be a mediocre film.  Look at the two big stars on the poster: Jason Bateman from "Horrible Bosses" and "Arrested Development," along with Academy Award nominee Melissa McCarthy of "Bridesmaids" fame.  Now look at the director: Seth Gordon, the director behind "Horrible Bosses."  The movie has a simple premise: a successful family man must travel to find and take down the woman who stole his identity.  Unfortunately, what was advertised as a comedy turns into something that is more of a drama where the audience is supposed to sympathize towards Melissa McCarthy's despicable and unlikable character.

I will give the film some credit for having a scene in a fancy restaurant that actually was kind of moving. When the film goes over the top though in terms of trying to make McCarthy's character a protagonist, and actually gets involved with Bateman's personal life towards the end of the film, that's when I lost my interest.  Also, the film tries to add in a subplot about a bounty hunter and two drug dealers that really does not flow well into the story.  "Identity Thief" is a step down from the quality of Bateman and McCarthy's other work, but it isn't the worst thing you will see all year.  However if you want to see Melissa McCarthy use her talents for the better, then just see "The Heat."