Definitely, Maybe

Suddenly, unexpectedly, a Ryan Reynolds movie worth seeing

By Matt Pais

Critic's Rating:

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Ryan Reynolds and Isla Fisher in "Definitely, Maybe" (Credit: Universal)

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With his divorce pending, Will (Ryan Reynolds) tells his daughter Maya (Abigail Breslin) the long, winding story of how he met and married her mother—a story, Maya hopes, whose retelling will motivate her parents to get back together. Isla Fisher, Rachel Weisz and Elizabeth Banks star as the potential spouses, with Derek Luke as Will’s pal and Kevin Kline as a pretentious college professor.

Big question: Can this romantic comedy set a pleasant, non-sappy mood for Valentine’s Day, even if it seems like a blatant rip-off/extension of  “How I Met Your Mother”?

Catch it: Very improbable, kinda corny and sweet as hell, “Definitely, Maybe” is a jackpot of blessed casting, featuring a collection of cinematic secret weapons like Fisher, Luke and Breslin and the first assertive Reynolds performance ever. Though seemingly oblivious to the possible disappearance of feelings over long periods of time, the movie qualifies as a next generation “When Harry Met Sally,” and a story about the lessons the past teaches us when we’re ready to learn them.

Skip it: Will tells Maya that “threesome” is a game that adults play when they’re bored. If you’re looking for a game to play when your family gets together, we suggest you stick with Monopoly.

Bottom line: The revolving door of women—meant to keep us guessing about who mothered Maya and will eventually win Will’s heart--doesn't work as well as the oddly effective parallel between Will’s outlook on love and his job supporting Bill Clinton's up-and-down political career. But “Definitely, Maybe,” a film that knows the role of timing in relationships, gives you reason to forgive its faults and celebrate its gifts; if that’s not love, I don’t know what is.

Bonus: Hampton (Kline) offers a new principle on dating college students: Seeing two freshmen adds up to one dating sophomore. Also, you’re entitled to them all if you can figure out the math!

Video: Watch the review of 'Definitely, Maybe'

What do you think of "Definitely, Maybe"? Email me: mpais@tribune.com