The trailer for the 2016 comedy “Why Him?” unfortunately misrepresents the actual film. While promising a hilarious showdown between James Franco and Bryan Cranston, the movie itself falls short of expectations, failing to deliver on the comedic potential hinted at in the preview. This article explores the discrepancies between the “Why Him?” trailer and the film, examining how the marketing campaign ultimately misled audiences.
A Comedic Misfire: Where the Trailer Went Wrong
The “Why Him?” trailer heavily emphasizes the rivalry between Laird (James Franco), an eccentric billionaire, and Ned (Bryan Cranston), the overprotective father of Laird’s girlfriend. This dynamic suggests a classic comedic battle of wills, brimming with witty banter and escalating pranks. However, the film veers away from this central conflict, instead meandering through a series of loosely connected gags and underdeveloped subplots. The Christmas setting, prominently featured in the trailer, feels tacked on, serving more as a marketing ploy than an integral part of the narrative.
The trailer also highlights the film’s raunchy humor, showcasing a barrage of profanity and crude jokes. While this might appeal to some viewers, it ultimately overshadows the film’s attempts at genuine heart and character development. The overreliance on shock value ultimately detracts from the comedic potential of the story. The constant use of profanity doesn’t inherently equate to humor, a point the movie seemingly misses.
Lost Potential: A Weak Script and Underutilized Talent
“Why Him?” boasts a talented cast, led by the comedic prowess of James Franco and Bryan Cranston. However, the script fails to provide them with material worthy of their abilities. Franco delivers a performance consistent with his recent comedic roles, while Cranston is relegated to playing the straight man, his comedic talents largely untapped. The supporting characters are equally underdeveloped, serving primarily as props for the two leads.
The film’s narrative suffers from a lack of focus, struggling to establish a clear central theme. The characters are largely unlikeable and their motivations unclear, making it difficult for the audience to invest in their journey. The predictable plot twists and forced sentimentality further contribute to the film’s overall underwhelming impact. The movie feels unnecessarily long, clocking in at nearly two hours. A tighter edit and a more focused script could have significantly improved the final product.
Beyond the Trailer: A Disappointing Reality
While the “Why Him?” trailer promised a laugh-out-loud comedy experience, the film itself delivers a disjointed and ultimately forgettable experience. The misleading marketing campaign set unrealistic expectations, highlighting the film’s raunchier elements while neglecting its fundamental flaws. The misalignment between the trailer and the actual movie serves as a cautionary tale about the power of marketing to shape audience perception. Though the film has its moments, it ultimately fails to capitalize on its comedic potential, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.
