It’s hard to not draw some sort of parallel with The Hangover when watching Due Date, both being directed by Todd Phillips and both starring Zach Galifianakis as a clueless imbecile with the wit of a rock, but he’s still such a nice guy that you have to like him. This doesn’t mean, however, that Due Date is a clone of The Hangover.
The story is Peter Highman (Robert Downey, Jr.) is an expectant father on his way to Los Angeles to be with his wife (Michelle Monaghan) when he meets Ethan Tremblay (Galifianakis). Through a series of events Peter is unable to fly to LA so must go on car journey across the south of America with Ethan to get to the birth of his child in time. Through this we are subject to non-stop gags and are treated to some spot on acting.
The talent of Downey, Jr. and Galifianakis adds a tremendous amount to the film, playing off one another to keep the laughs coming thick and fast, if sometimes a bit too lewd for some people’s tastes, and cameos from the likes of Jamie Foxx and RZA just keep the laughs coming. The only times we are not laughing are when we are treated to some heart-warming moments that make you feel connected to the main characters.
Being a buddy film we are, of course, led through the formula of one not liking the other but eventually growing to accept them. Though this has grown somewhat stale the way in which it is carried out keeps it fresh, showing a lot of character development from both Ethan and Peter.
Due Date is an amazingly scripted film with a great plot featuring actors who can work together in a hilarious fashion. This comedy is something that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Final Verdict: 9/10
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