Three couples (all friends) regularly meet for “Game Night”. Game Nights includes the involvement of classic group games such as LIFE, Pictionary and charades etc. But this time, one of the members takes Game Night to the next level as the night starts as off with new Murder Mystery style game. Needless to say, this style of game (well… that is if it’s actually just a game) takes Game Night and the characters to a whole new level. 

While Game Night has many humorous characters, most of the film focuses heavily on one of that married couple- Max (Jason Bateman) & Annie (Rachel Adams). The two met and fell in love at a Trivia night where they discovered they are as equally competitive as each other, but are also stronger when paired together for Game Nights. In the present day, Max and Annie are beginning to question each other as to whether they are ready to start a family or prefer their current lifestyle. I enjoy these two characters as leads because within a matter of seconds, Max and Annie are believable and their interaction with each other is hilarious.

I personally have no complaints with the film’s humour. Actor Jason Bateman is well known for comedy films (Horrible Bosses for example), but I truly enjoyed seeing Rachel Adams remind cinema audiences that she too has what it takes to have fun and be humorous (after all, she did once star in Mean Girls & The Hot Chick). I personally wouldn’t change our leads for this film. The jokes between these two alone had me curious as to what was actually scripted or made up on the spot. It didn’t matter on the situation, they were always funny

Game Night is a comedy but to my surprise, it’s also a mystery and thriller. I was surprised how many times I found myself laughing at this film and then found myself rather curious as to the mysteries the film kept unveiling. Our characters witness and involve themselves in rather painful (yet cringe-worthy) situations. The film’s ideas are also fresh and creative, which is just so rare to see with comedy films today. I mean sure- there might be times where this film will make you think how similar it is to the time Michael Douglas appeared in the classic thriller The Game from 1997, but Game Night adds witty humour and creative dialogue. Not to mention, the film feels rather modern as it makes jokes about well-known films, pop culture, technology and of course….Boardgame references which we all can relate to. I also noticed the film has a fun style of transitions, using what appears to be model houses (possibly from well-known board games?), streets maps and even throws in fun techno music tracks which had my foot tapping away as the film kept moving along at a speedy pace.

Overall, Game Night has plenty of creative comedy and references that will surprise many. While the film’s plot at certain times can be questionable, this didn’t stop me from having a good laugh and enjoying something fresh and new. Actors Jason Bateman and Rachel Adams were cast perfectly, in particular to Rachel Adams, who reminded us that she still has what it takes to have fun in the film. Game Night never felt boring and for its duration, the film moves at a fun pace, managing to keep me invested (and very interested) as to the film’s final outcome. If you need a good laugh, this comes recommended.

8.4/10 

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Review Written by Peter Walkden