Stellar cast can’t keep ‘Train’ on track
Print Edition
THE problem with “The D Train” isn’t the performances. Jack Black, James Marsden, Kathryn Hahn and Jeffrey Tambor are wonderful in their respective roles.
The issue is the story. It’s not just uneven, it’s often unfunny: tinged with homophobia and centered on an unlikable, self-absorbed man.
Dan Landsman (Black) is serious about his Pennsylvania high school’s 20th reunion and considers himself chairman of its organizing committee. He yearns desperately to be liked, but comes across as bossy and uncooperative, so when the group goes out for beers after committee meetings, they leave him behind.
Otherwise, Dan’s life looks pretty good. He seems happily married to his lovely, supportive wife (Hahn), has an admiring teenage son (talented newcomer Russell Posner) and works for a trusting, encouraging boss (Tambor).
Watching TV late one night, Dan spots his reunion solution: He sees a commercial starring a former classmate, the handsome and popular Oliver Lawless (Marsden), and decides if he can bring the now-actor back to their hometown, he’ll be the hero of the reunion.
“The D Train” rides entirely on its excellent cast. Marsden is flawless as Lawless, all sexy swagger and false nonchalance. Hahn heartbreakingly conveys unconditional love pushed to its limit. Tambor’s sincerity is transparent.
And Black is profound. He’s achingly real and vulnerable, giving heart to a character so unlikable even his eventual self-awareness wouldn’t be enough.
The film ventures into brave territory for a buddy comedy with its twist on the trope of drunken one-night stands, but safely and disappointingly wades back to the usual stereotypes.
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