The critics hated Dinner for Schmucks because it is based on a fundamentally negative depiction of rich, powerful people. I am noticing this more and more: decent films that are panned and total flops, which curiously also depict the rich and powerful unattractively.

I’m not saying Dinner for Schmucks is a good film – it isn’t. Much of the humor is really obvious and predictable (example: two cell phones on the table and Paul Rudd takes the wrong one, with disastrous consequences – there’s a good amount of stuff that’s been done a million times before.) But there is also a lot of off-beat, quirky, sort-of original humor, and the character of Kieren is really a hoot. Furthermore, Dinner for Schmucks has heart. And it has Paul Rudd and Steve Carell, both of whom make up a lot of shortcomings with their talent and warmth on-screen. I actually enjoyed this movie, even though it was not that good. I found it funny in parts, touching, and quite entertaining. And I thought the mice were adorable!

Ignore the critics and give Dinner for Schmucks a chance, especially if you like Rudd and Carell. It’s actually a pretty cute movie.