What Happens in Vegas

Set in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Las Vegas, the 2008 romantic comedy What Happens in Vegas is a refreshing take on the couple-bickering genre, complete with hilariously chaotic situations, witty dialogue, and memorable characters. With a star-studded cast that includes Cameron Diaz, Ashton Kutcher, and Rob Corddry, this movie perfectly brings out relatable relationship dilemmas in an excessively outrageous setting and circumstance.

Cameron Diaz stars as Joy McNally, a Wall Street trader who is both hardworking and fastidious. This makes her the pride and joy of her brokerage firm. However, Joy's life takes an unexpected turn when her finicky nature plays a role in her break-up with her boyfriend Mason, portrayed by Jason Sudeikis. Seeking an escape from the drama of her love life, Joy sets off for a wild weekend getaway with her best friend Tipper, played by Lake Bell, in none other than the city of Vegas.

On the other hand, Ashton Kutcher plays the role of Jack Fuller, a happy-go-lucky and unmotivated young man who has failed to make a significant mark in his father's furniture business. After being fired from his job, Jack ends up in Vegas with his best friend Hater, portrayed by Rob Corddry, ready to let loose and drown his sorrows in the vibrant energy of the sin city.

As chance would have it, Joy and Jack end up at the same hotel, their paths crossing under the bright, sparkling Vegas lights. After a night of too much alcohol and impulsive decisions, they wake up to realize they got married without even remembering the ceremony. Their initial reaction is filled with horror, disbelief, and mutual agreement to separate as soon as possible. But their plans for a quickie annulment are dramatically interrupted when Jack hits a whopping three million dollar jackpot using Joy's quarter.

The conflict that follows sees the newlyweds in court, where the stern, no-nonsense judge played by Dennis Miller hands down an unexpected verdict - they must try to make their marriage work for six months, with weekly sessions with a marriage counselor, or they'll lose the money. Jack and Joy are forced to play house and restrain their visceral contempt for each other to keep hold of the jackpot.

Both Diaz and Kutcher bring to their characters a beautiful mix of charm, wit, and depth while also being delightfully funny and entertaining. As Joy, Diaz is the living embodiment of the saying 'all work and no play'. She portrays her character’s transformation from an uptight Wall Street dynamo to a woman in an unexpectedly chaotic situation with commendable ease. Kutcher, on the other hand, is convincing as the carefree Jack, a born underachiever stuck in an unwanted relationship, navigating through his complex emotions with a comedic touch.

Adding spice to the cinematic ride are comedians Lake Bell and Rob Corddry, meticulously performing as the eccentric best friends on both sides. Their scenes ooze laugh-out-loud moments, adding a perfect balance to the more serious undertones of the movie.

What Happens in Vegas is directed by Tom Vaughn, known for his knack for crafting fun, light-hearted romantic comedies. The movie's screenplay, by Dana Fox, shines with its humorous set pieces that elicit genuine laughter. It also brings out the shifting dynamics in Jack and Joy’s relationship, examining the complexities of commitment and love with a humorous lens.

Despite its breezy and fun atmosphere, the film also throws light on the struggles couples face in maintaining a steady relationship. It emphasizes the fact that appearances can be deceptive and the person you least expect may just be the one for you.

In conclusion, What Happens in Vegas is an entertaining, light-hearted romp through unexpected matrimony, mega-jackpots, and the inherent craziness of Sin City. Hilarity ensues as the reluctant couple tries to outwit each other while finding themselves entangled in a situation they never thought possible. So join Joy and Jack on their bizarre roller coaster ride and discover what truly happens when you let loose in Vegas.