What About Polly, at its core, is a cinematic exploration of confronting fear and embracing spontaneity. It’s a reminder that while careful planning offers security, true fulfillment often lies in taking calculated risks and allowing ourselves to be open to unexpected experiences, even if those experiences are as chaotic and imperfect as Polly Prince.
The Essence of Polly: More Than Just Rom-Com Clichés
What About Polly isn’t just another entry in the rom-com genre; it’s a film that dares to juxtapose the predictable with the unpredictable. Reuben Feffer (Ben Stiller), an insurance risk assessor, represents meticulousness and control, traits shattered when his wife cheats on him on their honeymoon. Polly Prince (Jennifer Aniston), a free-spirited former classmate, embodies impulsive living and an aversion to commitment. The film’s central tension arises from Reuben’s struggle to reconcile his risk-averse nature with Polly’s chaotic charm.
Deconstructing the Characters: Order vs. Chaos
Reuben’s job, and his inherent personality, are deeply intertwined. He quantifies and minimizes risk, seeking certainty in a world inherently uncertain. His meticulous planning extends to every aspect of his life, leaving little room for spontaneity. This is vividly contrasted with Polly, who embraces the moment, flitting from job to job, relationship to relationship, and experience to experience. Her lack of planning, while initially unsettling to Reuben, ultimately forces him to confront his own limitations and consider the potential rewards of stepping outside his comfort zone. The film cleverly uses their opposing lifestyles as a commentary on different approaches to life.
Beyond the Laughs: A Deeper Message
While undeniably funny, What About Polly offers a subtle commentary on the human need for control and the potential downsides of excessive caution. Reuben’s initial discomfort with Polly’s lifestyle stems from his fear of the unknown and his desire to avoid being hurt again. However, as he spends more time with her, he begins to see the value in embracing imperfection and allowing himself to be vulnerable. The film suggests that while risk assessment is valuable in certain contexts, it shouldn’t paralyze us from experiencing the richness and unpredictability of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About What About Polly
Here are some frequently asked questions about the movie What About Polly, providing deeper insights and addressing common points of interest:
Q1: Is What About Polly considered a successful romantic comedy?
The film’s success is debatable. While commercially viable, earning over $170 million worldwide, it received mixed critical reviews. Some found it to be a predictable and formulaic rom-com, while others appreciated the comedic performances and the underlying message about taking risks. Its success is largely subjective, depending on individual taste and expectations.
Q2: What is the significance of the ferret in the film?
The ferret, Rodolfo, serves as a physical representation of the chaos that Polly embodies. He’s unpredictable, messy, and often causes disruptions, much like Polly’s presence in Reuben’s carefully ordered life. Rodolfo also acts as a source of humor, contributing to the film’s overall comedic tone.
Q3: How does the film portray commitment and relationships?
What About Polly offers a somewhat unconventional view of commitment. While Reuben initially seeks a traditional, stable relationship, his experience with Lisa Kramer (Debra Messing) demonstrates that even seemingly perfect relationships can be flawed. Polly, on the other hand, is initially commitment-phobic, but eventually learns to open herself up to the possibility of a lasting connection. The film suggests that commitment is not about avoiding risks, but about embracing vulnerability and accepting imperfections.
Q4: What is the role of Sandy Lyle (Philip Seymour Hoffman) in the movie?
Sandy Lyle, Reuben’s childhood friend, serves as the comic relief and provides a contrasting perspective on life. He is overly enthusiastic, desperate for attention, and often embarrassing, but he is also fiercely loyal to Reuben. Sandy’s character highlights the importance of friendship and reminds Reuben to not take himself too seriously.
Q5: Does the film promote a realistic view of mental health?
The film doesn’t delve deeply into mental health issues, but it subtly touches upon themes of anxiety and trauma related to Reuben’s previous relationship. His reliance on risk assessment could be interpreted as a coping mechanism for dealing with the emotional fallout of his wife’s infidelity. However, it’s important to remember that What About Polly is primarily a comedy, and its portrayal of mental health is not intended to be a serious or comprehensive analysis.
Q6: What are some of the most memorable scenes in the film?
Memorable scenes include Reuben’s disastrous first date with Polly, the scene where he tries to cook a complicated Moroccan tagine (with disastrous results), and the climactic scene where he must confront his fears and embrace spontaneity to win Polly back. These scenes are memorable for their comedic timing, relatable situations, and the actors’ performances.
Q7: What makes Jennifer Aniston’s performance as Polly Prince stand out?
Aniston’s portrayal of Polly is both charming and believable. She manages to capture the character’s free-spirited nature while also conveying a sense of vulnerability and underlying insecurity. Her comedic timing and on-screen chemistry with Ben Stiller contribute significantly to the film’s appeal.
Q8: How does the film use physical comedy?
What About Polly relies heavily on physical comedy, particularly in scenes involving Reuben’s awkwardness and clumsiness. The Moroccan food incident, the basketball game, and his attempts to keep up with Polly’s activities all showcase his discomfort and inability to adapt to her lifestyle, generating humor through slapstick and awkward situations.
Q9: What are some of the criticisms leveled against What About Polly?
Common criticisms include the film’s reliance on stereotypes, its predictable plot, and its perceived lack of depth. Some critics also argued that the characters were underdeveloped and that the humor was often crude or insensitive.
Q10: What is the significance of the “dump” Reuben takes in the film?
The dump, a crucial and humorous plot point, symbolizes Reuben’s fear of change and his inability to let go of the past. The larger the “dump,” the more anxiety he is feeling and the less willing he is to embrace the unknown. Overcoming his “dump” represents his growth throughout the film.
Q11: How does the film explore the theme of personal growth?
The film tracks Reuben’s journey of self-discovery as he learns to confront his fears and embrace spontaneity. Through his relationship with Polly, he begins to question his rigid adherence to risk assessment and to recognize the value in taking chances. His character arc demonstrates the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone and being open to new experiences.
Q12: Is What About Polly worth watching in 2024?
Whether What About Polly is worth watching today depends on your preferences. If you enjoy lighthearted romantic comedies with strong comedic performances, the film offers a fun and entertaining experience. While it may not be groundbreaking, it provides a relatable and ultimately uplifting message about overcoming fear and embracing life’s uncertainties. It’s a nostalgic trip for some and a worthwhile light watch for others.