Published on Monday, October 6, 2008

movies

'Nick and Norah' simple teen flick with great acting


By HEATHER SKRIP
Last updated on 00/00/0000 at 12:00 a.m.

Imagine “Juno,” but not as cheesy, and you will get “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist.”

This 90-minute teen flick takes viewers on the random journey of a group of friends in New York City. Teenagers are sure to appreciate the film, as it will seem like it’s ripped from their memories of last weekend.

The film stars Michael Cera (Nick) and Kat Dennings (Norah), two teenagers who seem destined to be together. The two meet by chance at a party while trying to fulfill their own selfish interests (Norah spontaneously asks Nick to be her boyfriend for five minutes). After a while, it becomes obvious that Nick and Norah are soulmates who have everything in common. Oddly, there’s also a band called “Where’s Fluffy?” that connects everyone in the story. In general, the film does not venture much further than what is shown in the trailers; what you see is what you get.

The soundtrack features indie bands that you’ve probably never heard of and probably will never hear of again.

As obscure as the music is, it fits well with the indie feel of the movie, which is reminiscent of “Garden State.” Sadly enough, “Where’s Fluffy?” never plays, so the audience continues to live in wonder, trying to comprehend why everyone is obsessed with this band. The creators hyped “Nick and Norah” to be a musical connection between two soulmates, but the sheer randomness of the film pushes the musical plot aside.


The storyline was predictable, but it’s overshadowed by the fact that the plot is witty and fresh. Without the constant laughs that the actors bring, the film would be as typical as an after school special.

Cera and Dennings keep the laughs coming in a way that seems natural, but the humor doesn’t go beneath the surface.

All things considered, such as the obvious storylines and the strange music, the movie still shines in the category of teen movies. The acting is extraordinary and the casting was well done, as Cera and Dennings portray their characters in a wonderfully realistic manner.

“Nick and Norah” is worth seeing, but don’t expect the music-based romantic-comedy that the previews lead you to believe it will be. Instead, expect a cute teen flick that lets its superior acting overshadow a simple storyline.

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