Much like its protagonist, con-artist Steven Russell, I Love You Phillip Morris is never quite what it seems.
Just when you think you’re watching a drama, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa’s film morphs into a twisted comedy before developing into a touching romance.
Veering between genres might have been off-putting were it not for a masterful turn by Jim Carrey, who proves he is more than a rubber-faced buffoon with a penchant for talking out of his arse.
Based on a true story, the movie follows the misdeeds of Steven Russell (Carrey), an incorrigible swindler.
After coming out to his wife and doing one con-job too many, Russell lands up in prison and falls for inmate Phillip Morris (Ewan McGregor).
The two strike up a relationship that is permanently in jeopardy because of the fraudster’s scams.
Putting in a wholehearted performance, which includes a graphic bum-sex scene, Carrey has seldom been better as the complex Russell.
McGregor is less memorable as Morris, but this doesn’t detract much from a good film.
Good for: Those who want to see a different side to Jim Carrey.
PIERRE DE VILLIERS
Watch the trailer below: