Movie Review: “Trainwreck” (2015)

We have all been a witness. That one dummy who can’t seem to get their shit together. The only thing consistent about them is how much of a disappointment they are. They’re always building walls, combing over the truth and whining until they win. Life is tough, and there are no rules or guidelines for these losers to follow. You definitely don’t want to go down on this sinking ship. Yet, why are we so fascinated by morally bankrupt behavior? “Trainwreck” succeeds in pleasing those who are into delusional narcissism, so hop along for the ride.

This is a classic story told through contemporary means. It’s also a deeply personal account and draws a lot from writer/actress Amy Schumer’s life. The notion of monogamy being unrealistic, in a hilarious scene by Colin Quinn, has been embedded into Amy at an early age by her father. Flash forward to her young adult years, Amy struggles to find happiness for herself as she cycles through new partners. In the day and age that a hookup is only a swipe away, “Trainwreck” displays the brutally honest truth of how selfish people can be. Schumer’s sharp humor and Apatow’s filmmaking sensibilities blend well together making for the perfect marriage of a hot-mess comedy.

In the beginning, one of Amy’s regular hook-ups is played by pro wrestler John Cena. Schumer previously dated WWE’s Dolph Ziggler, so these scenes seem like a heightened sense of reality. It’s pretty freakin’ funny to see such a jacked dude say the stupidest stuff. Even though he may not be the best actor, the wrestler triumphs in intelligent ways. Apatow and Schumer help coach Cena’s comedy through fitness and sports metaphors, and the results are spectacular. Wanna know what John Cena does to assholes? As per usual, Amy finds a way to mess up her relationship with the cross-fit enthusiast Steven, and Cena turns into vapor.

In real life, Amy Schumer’s sister is extremely important. Often referred to as her “road manager,” Kim is a part of the “Inside Amy Schumer” writing team. This is no different in “Trainwreck.” Kim is portrayed on screen by the beautifully talented Brie Larson, who enhances every scene. She is the polar opposite of Amy. Kim’s happily married with a step-child and got her life together. It kinds makes you wonder how these two were raised by the same people. However, their on-screen chemistry is electrifying. A good cop/bad cop dynamic always yields great results. Also, I would watch Brie Larson in anything.

The casting is incredible in this film. There are cameos for days. As the plot starts to move forward, we see Amy in her work environment. She is a writer at magazine with the wickedly hilarious Tilda Swinton as her boss. Vanessa Bayer and Ezra Miller contribute to the fun as her co-worker and an intern, respectively. Loads of athletes make an appearance. There is even a movie within the film starring Daniel Radcliffe and Marisa Tomei. One of my favorite moments in the film seems to come out of nowhere, and it involves Marv Albert.

Amy gets assigned to write an article about a sports physician innovating his field, played by the reliable Bill Hader. This is were the film starts to become familiar as with most romantic comedies. She connects with someone who is different and finding herself doing things out of her normal routine. Change can be difficult. There is a lot of hilarity because magic comes from stepping outside of our comfort zone. With LeBron James as his personal wingman, Dr. Aaron is the nice guy going for the gold.

By championing young fresh voices, Apatow is back to creating content that is funny yet poignant and reflecting of the time. Judd has come full circle. “Trainwreck” feels like a paradox to his debut “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.” The latter is of a dude who has never been laid to the former’s loose leading lady. However funny both films are, there is also some dark moments. Schumer’s dramatic scenes highlight a shade we rarely see of her. I find Amy Schumer to be an amazing talent that will be as successful as Steve Carell. I can’t wait to see her in a “Foxcatcher” Golden Eagle role. She’ll slay it.

A Universal Pictures feature now playing in theaters nationwide.

Overall: Apatow/Schumer: Making American Comedies Great Again

My Rating: 8.5/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 86%

Directed by: Judd Apatow

Starring: Amy Schumer, Bill Hader, Brie Larson, Colin Quinn, Tilda Swinton, LeBron James, John Cena, Ezra Miller, Vanessa Bayer, Mike Birbiglia and Dave Attell

Rated R for strong sexual content, nudity, language and some drug use.

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