Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

A decent film that frequently wastes the good will generated by the genuinely sweet interplay between the two titular characters by ceding far too much screen time to the zany antics of the mostly two-dimensional secondary characters (the bitchy evil ex-girlfriend, the manipulative user ex-boyfriend, drunk teen girl, wacky Asian buddy).

There are enough laugh out loud funny bits to keep the film going and its enjoyable to see so much of NYC in all its nighttime glory, though cynical viewers will justifiably point out the unrealistic ease with which that characters are able to navigate the city by car and indeed, actually find parking.

Michael Cera hones his nervous deadpan persona as Nick, guitar player, mixed cd maker extraordinaire, and piner of the forementioned ex, Tris (Alexis Dziena). Kat Denning, as Norah, is at turns sultry, vulnerable, tough, and engaging as the romantic lead who challenges but ultimately falls for hapless Nick.

Juno fans will enjoy some quirky touches here and there but others will wonder what a better film it would have been if the producers/director had been able to resist what was likely the siren call of the box office.

Mildly recommend.

Other Notes:

• Most of the cast and crew were in attendance, and it was nice that their family also had a chance to come and see the premiere with them.
• The soundtrack features a lot of current alt-indie faves like The National and Vampire Weekend and will likely be released shortly.