Beth (Kristen Bell) is a curator at the Guggenheim who is so tied up with her job that her last relationship ended a year ago. Shortly after finding out that her ex is getting married, Beth’s little sister reveals she’s getting married…in Rome. So, feeling like her skepticism of love is well placed, Beth is off to Rome to be maid of honor. The best man is Nick (Josh Duhamel), a fellow New Yorker and sports columnist. At her lowest point about romance, Beth takes coins out of the nearby Fontana de Amore; legend says the men who tossed the coins will now fall in love with her. Pursued by a crazy group of guys, Beth is afraid Nick’s feelings aren’t for real.

CRITIQUE

January and February at the multiplexes seem to have become unofficial romantic comedy months, in which two gorgeous stars enact different variations on the same formula. Critics as a whole seem to harbor ill feelings towards most of the genre, but I don’t mind formula when the execution is good. And this film luckily boasts exactly that. When in Rome has quite a predictable plot but the appealing performances and fun direction emphasize exactly the right bits of humor and romance.

While there’s nothing original in the actual plot points of this film (you just know Beth and Nick will end up together at the end), where a romantic comedy can distinguish itself is in its details, and that is the small pleasure of When in Rome. The idea of the magical fountain obviously stretches credulity, but it allows for a field of comedic possibilities as a motley assortment of men pursue Beth in a variety of crazy ways. Director Mark Steven Johnson wisely gathered guys with improvisation and comedic skills to play these characters and that’s why the audience gets laughs. Veteran Danny DeVito is firmly supported by Dax Shepard, Will Arnett, and Jon Heder as the four suitors, and they are funny to watch. However, the comedy in a few other places isn’t quite perfect. (There’s a flat food-in-teeth bit at the beginning.)

As the leads, Kristen Bell and Josh Duhamel easily carry a whole film and they make a nice couple with good chemistry. It’s difficult to see how Bell’s character was without luck in romance--her womanizing father (Don Johnson!) is put forth as a foundation for her disbelief in lasting love but he’s too genial to make this truly plausible. However, she’s likeable and authentic, so you do really like seeing Nick fight for her. In fact, Duhamel does that charm thing very well. Aside from the cast, things like the gorgeous locations and fun songs add enjoyment to the film.

With appealing lead and supporting stars, a bright look, and a solid amount of humor, When in Rome makes a fun romantic comedy.

THE VIDEO

Having seen this film in theaters, I can safely say that the widescreen format for this disc, aside from preserving the correct aspect ratio, also transfers the muted tones of the film perfectly. This disc’s picture plays like all DVD’s should.

THE AUDIO

The Englsih Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround track sounds perfect as ever on this disc, which is a nice benefit for the upbeat soundtrack in the film. French and Spanish language tracks are available. Subtitles are offered in English, Spanish and French.

THE EXTRAS

Bloopers: This brief gag reel is full of the standard flubbed lines and goofing around that fill this kind of extra. There are quite a few funny bits here. DeVito working a fall into the plotline is especially cute!

Deleted Scenes: There are four included here and they are actually pretty good. One has a bit where effects would have been added later, and we actually see the complete footage of Nick’s football hit.

Music Videos: Two videos are included here: “Starstrukk” by 3OH!3 and Katy Perry and “Stupid Love Letter” by Friday Night Boys. The first is a fairly fun song--if spelling deficient-- but the video contains no reference to the film other than being filmed near a fountain. The second song is a bit too emo for my taste, but there are film clips in it. Enjoying them both once is probably the best bet.

FINAL THOUGHTS

When in Rome benefits from appealing and funny performers who take the story’s predictability and turn it into genial fun from beginning to end. The solid direction also helps the genuine glimpses of romance shine through. While it breaks no new ground, When in Rome is entertaining, and romantic comedy fans might want to check it out.