“Going the Distance” renews faith in romantic comedies

In this current dry spell of successful romantic comedies, frustrated chick-flick lovers finally… In this current dry spell of successful romantic comedies, frustrated chick-flick lovers finally have a reason to rejoice. “Going the Distance” rises well above the bar that recent rom-coms have set.

After so many disappointments in the genre — think, “All About Steve,” “The Back-up Plan” and “Did You Hear About the Morgans?” — it was difficult to imagine “Going the Distance” having a different fate.

The film, starring Drew Barrymore and Justin Long, chronicles the long-distance relationship of couple Erin and Garrett.

When the two meet in New York, the connection is evident and the star-crossed lovers begin to cultivate a relationship. But, Erin soon confesses that she is only in New York for the summer to intern at a magazine and plans to return to her hometown of Los Angeles in three weeks.

Once her short stay has come to a close, Erin and Garrett decide to pursue their relationship, despite the daunting thousands of miles that separate them.  And soon enough, cross-country visits and the vast amount of distance  begin to wear on the couple and put a strain on their relationship.

In addition to learning to cope with distance, the movie touches on themes such as infidelity and the seven-month itch.

The film’s dialogue is witty and fast-paced. Surprisingly, the script was original and managed to escape the mold of a typical rom-com. This, in addition to relatable subject matter, helped the movie keep a brisk pace. Though it lasted roughly two hours, the length was owing to a continuum of relevant scenes and entertaining quips, and it didn’t drag on.

The movie’s all-star cast helped make the most of its stellar script. Although Drew Barrymore and Justin Long put on great performances as the film’s stars, it was the supporting actors who stole the spotlight. Jason Sudeikis of “Saturday Night Live” and Charlie Day of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” play Box and Dan respectively, Garrett’s two best friends. Jim Gaffigan, who plays Erin’s brother-in-law, has a minor role but his lines offer much-appreciated comic relief. But Christina Applegate, who plays Erin’s sister, Corinne, proves to be the highlight of the movie with her one-liners.

So, ladies, if you’re looking for a romantic comedy, “Going the Distance” will satisfy every girly fiber of your being and renew your hope in chick flicks.