This is 40 We Think Tickets

Judd Apatow’s 2012 film This is 40 offers a comedic take on the struggles of middle age. The story follows married couple Pete and Debbie, played by Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann, as they navigate turning 40 and all the challenges that come with it.

One of the central themes of the film is the communication breakdown between partners as they get older. Pete and Debbie struggle to open up to each other about their fears and frustrations, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. Apatow mines humor from these situations by showing how absurd some of the conflicts can be.

For example, Pete gets caught sneaking cupcakes while on a diet and tries to cover it up by pretending he was eating something healthy. When Debbie catches him in the lie, they argue about the importance of honesty in their relationship. While the scene is played for laughs, it also touches on a universal truth: the little things can become big points of contention if left unresolved.

Another aspect of middle age explored in This is 40 is the struggle to hold onto youthfulness while dealing with the realities of aging. Pete and Debbie both feel like they’re “over the hill,” but resist fully embracing middle age. They try to keep up with younger people by getting tattoos and going to concerts, but often end up feeling out of place.

The film doesn’t shy away from the physical changes that come with getting older, either. There are scenes where Pete and Debbie joke about their bodies betraying them, such as when they discuss their respective bowel movements. These moments may seem crass, but they’re relatable to anyone who’s noticed their body not functioning as it once did.

One of the strengths of This is 40 is how it balances the comedy with genuine emotional moments. At its heart, the film is a love story about two flawed people who are doing their best to make their marriage work. The jokes serve to lighten the mood, but also add depth to the characters’ struggles.

Ultimately, This is 40 offers a humorous and heartfelt look at the challenges of middle age. Apatow’s writing and direction are sharp, and the performances from Rudd and Mann are top-notch. If you’re in the mood for a comedy that’s both relatable and poignant, give This is 40 a watch.