2002, PG-13, 101 minutes

Because About a Boy is based on a novel by Nick Hornby, many people wrote this film off as a mere repeat of High Fidelity. And while this film does cover some of the same themes and shares a similar sense of humor, in the end it is quite different and also surprisingly good. Who would have guessed the guys behind American Pie would follow up their gross-out sex comedy with a touching and mature movie for adults?

Over the past few years, Hugh Grant's continuously bumbling shtick had just about overstayed its welcome, which is why casting him in this film was so brilliant. You see, the man he portrays not only acts shallow and superficial the way many of Grant's former characters have, but as he explains to a close friend, "I really am this shallow." The difference is, as opposed to being a witty jerk for the sake of a laugh and no other reason, in About a Boy his outward act reflects the inner character. This allows us to care for him simply because at least he's being honest (to the audience), even though he spends the majority of the film lying to just about everyone he meets.

What makes this movie particular enjoyable, aside from its witty and offbeat attitude, are the diverse characters and the story's constant ability to avoid formula. Sure, we see this emotionally detached man form a relationship with a twelve-year-old boy and learn to care about other people, but it never feels contrived as if the characters know they're supposed to follow a predestined path. I also appreciated the realistic actions and emotions of the characters - they have awkward moments, don't accept vague lies without asking more specific questions, and are willing to forgive each other unlike so many movies where characters hold grudges beyond belief.

I wish there were more adult-oriented comedies like About a Boy. The humor is mature and witty without being dry, thanks mostly to a strong screenplay and an admirable performance from Hugh Grant, not to mention the surprisingly sophisticated direction from Chris & Paul Weitz. If you like comedy and romance but are tired of gross-out humor and sappy, heart-tugging clichés, chances are you'll find About a Boy to be a refreshing and genuine experience. I strongly recommend it.