Parents' Guide to 40 Dates and 40 Nights

A familiar conceit with likable characters leads to a frothy but predictable romcom. Unlike 2002's 40 Days and 40 Nights, in which the challenge had a biblical connection to Lent and involved a womanizer (Josh Hartnett) learning to prioritize intimacy over sex, the contest in 40 Dates and 40 Nights is about pushing Leah out of her comfort zone to prove that love really exists. Potts is ideally cast as an eccentric, wealthy grandmother who serves as her granddaughter's trusted confidante, and Madison is believable as a somewhat aimless Gen Zer who hasn't yet found her "thing," either professionally or personally. Courtney and Madison have appealing chemistry, although the screenplay keeps him in the friend zone much longer than expected.

There's nothing extraordinary about the movie, but it's always refreshing to see a romcom that passes the Bechdel Test, even if only narrowly (in this case, through conversations about work, Gigi, and movies). The subplot in which Leah pursues career opportunities is also commendable, especially because it highlights the many ways that Mason proves to be a supportive, encouraging prospective partner. Some of the movie's funniest moments belong to Rodriguez and Madison, because Steven isn't one to bite his tongue when he thinks one of Leah's dates is either a catch or a dud. While 40 Dates and 40 Nights is the kind of movie that feels better suited to streaming than seeing on the big screen, Madison is charming enough to make it worth watching.