I was able to see this movie in a recent flight from Mumbai to London in British Airways (review on BA will be submitted separetely).. Having not heard about this movie, I first thought that this is yet another sex comedies of Adam Sandler and sat back to enjoy it :-)
As the movie progressed, I realised that this is something different.. it is not just a pure entertainer but is also a movie with a powerful message. I feel that the message that the movie is trying to convey is basically :
Family is more important than career. One should not spend too much time working (at the cost of family) to get a promotion or a raise..
The other important message to me was - One should not try to run away from ones troubles / pains. These are essential to learn, improve and evolve into better human beings.
Basically the plot goes as follows - Adam is a hard working guy who loves his family but is too busy trying to become big in his career. He is focussed on his growth perhaps in the belief that he is sacrificing his today for a better tomorrow. In the process, he ends up being indifferent to his family. He also is keen to avoid any pain points like sickness, arguments with wife, entertaining guests etc. WHen he gets a magic remote control with which he can control his life he is very excited.
He begins by "muting" his dog which is disturbing him by barking and by "fast forwarding" any unpleasent moments.. Initially he finds this is fun but then realises that the remote is self adjsuting and will record his preferences and will automatically carry out the functions even when he does not press the command.
Thus he finds that life speeds by and he is virtually an uninvolved participant. He is in "auto pilot" mode most of the time and misses out on important milestones in life - like his daughters graduation, childrens growing pangs, fathers death etc. He even loses his wife to another man as his wife is becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of involvement and response.
Kate Beckinsale as the wife does not have much of a role but is a solid anchor to the movie. Adam is brilliant in his new avtaar as a matured actor and is now signalling of his ability and interest to do something different.
This movie has its very entertaing moments as well as touching moments. I was particularly touched when I saw the scene in which Adam realises that his father is dead and he was not even present. In the last meeting with his father (which he sees by using a "rewind" command - as he was on "auto pilot" mode when it actually occured) Adam ignores his dad as he is engrossed in his work and is unable to tell him how much he loves him..
There are some moments / comments which are sexual in nature and hence is not suitable for young children..
All in all, a must see movie.. Please do not miss this very well made movie..