NEW YEAR'S EVE

Despite it’s iconic setting during the cities night of nights, I didn’t enjoy this instalment as much as did the first (2010’s Valentine’s Day). Ashton Kutcher, as a disgruntled anti-New Year’s Ever and Glee’s Lea Michele, as an aspiring singer late for a back-up gig, share a story where the two are stuck in an elevator. While both may be genetically blessed, that doesn’t stop the pair from having the chemistry of a block of wood and a bowl of jelly. Also, is it so hard to ask that Michele not rely on her singing talents, just once?

Katherine Heigl is her usual self-righteous, irritating self as the worlds calmest chef on NYE, catering a huge music industry bash while trying desperately to ignore her rock star ex, Jon Bon Jovi. And by ’desperately’ I mean, not at all. There are however a few shining moments during the course of the film. Modern Family’s Sofia Vergara and teen heartthrob Zac Efron pretty much steal the show and are (almost) worth the price of admission. Halle Berry’s tale brought a tear (or 20) to my eye and I always love a Hector Elizondo and Larry Miller appearance. A staple to any Garry Marshall movie.

While New Year’s Eve didn’t leave me rolling in the aisle, it didn’t exactly leave my running down it towards the exit either. Heading into awards season, with all the Oscar contenders flying around and the inevitable holiday blockbusters that arrive around this time, if you’re looking for a light-hearted, throwaway alternative you can see with your friends or family, this one will do.