Sandy Patterson (Jason Bateman) is an average American man trying to support a family. When he discovers that someone has spent thousands of dollars in his name, Sandy’s hope of a secure future begins to disappear.
Authorities inform Sandy that his foe is a “hobbit sized” woman who, when not spending Sandy’s money, goes by the name Diana (Melissa McCarthy).
Sandy’s frustration with the Denver authorities’ inaction drives him to take matters into his own hands by flying to Winter Park, Fla. to find Diana, bring her back to Denver and get his life back. For the remainder of “Identity Thief,” viewers tag along for a roadtrip filled with car chases, hitchhiking mishaps and expensive hair appointments.
McCarthy had an impressive showing in her first lead role as she drives the humorous portions in “Identity Thief.” Made famous by her supporting role in the 2011 comedy “Bridesmaids,” McCarthy’s quick wit plays well with the dry, straight-man comedy of Jason Bateman. Diana physically and verbally abuses Sandy from the very first scene in which the two meet. Diana manipulates Sandy after they are in a minor car accident, punches him in the throat and speeds off in his car.
McCarthy generates laughter with ease, as demonstrated by a scene in which she runs slowly down the highway to get away from a jogging Patterson, who easily catches her.
Although there are multiple humorous interactions between Diana and Sandy, much of the humor is forced and unnecessary.
One such scene occurs while Diana and Sandy are spending the night in the woods. Right before falling asleep, a snake climbs into Sandy’s pants. He ends up getting bitten on the neck as Diana beats the snake, and Sandy, with a torch.
The scene is confusing. In addition to being forced, the majority of the comedic content is raunchy and sexual, which is both typical and overbearing.
The plotline of “Identity Thief” is much more complicated than it needs to be. The plot takes a turn early in the movie when Sandy is at Diana’s house and two mobsters come to the door with orders to kill Diana. They are present throughout the movie, but they are a weak and unnecessary addition to the drama. They chase Diana throughout, but they never substantially contribute to the direction of the plot.
Robert Patrick (“Gangster Squad”) plays a bounty hunter who is also trying to catch Diana. His role is more developed than that of the mobsters, but in essence, they are attempting to accomplish the same thing.
If the focus had been on just one of these subplots, it would have functioned to motivate Sandy and Diana more effectively. This would have pulled the plot in fewer directions and made it less awkward.
“Identity Thief” was directed by Seth Gordon, who is also known for directing “Horrible Bosses” and “Four Christmases.” This film reflects his style of comedy, which isn’t necessarily a good thing.
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