: This is the title of a 2011 American romantic comedy film directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa. The film stars Steve Carell, Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, and Julianne Moore.
Stylistically, the film uses contemporary settings and a brisk editing rhythm to reflect the fragmented nature of modern dating. The soundtrack and wardrobe choices reinforce character identity—Jacob’s tailored suits versus Cal’s conservative sweaters mark internal contrasts. Yet the movie resists reducing characters to stereotypes: Jacob’s evolution shows that even those who wield confidence as armor can unlearn defensive habits, while Cal’s setbacks remind viewers that recovery is neither linear nor easy.
The "un-smooth" everyman navigating the modern dating scene for the first time in decades. Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling):