Numb

Since I am writing a thesis on schizophrenia, I am currently looking for images of mentally ill people, and besides A Beautiful Mind, nothing else came to mind. Fortunately, my friend gave me this film, which approaches this topic in an unusual way on the border between comedy and drama, one could say tragicomedy. First and foremost, it must be noted that Matthew Perry is absolutely perfect in this role and out of all the films I have seen him in, definitely his best role. His perpetually drooping mouth corners, despair, loneliness, and horror in his eyes, that's exactly what the character of Hudson requires. I am glad that I will be able to incorporate this story into my thesis, as it offers plenty of food for thought. Is a person who claims to be mentally ill truly sick? Is love the best medicine for mental illness? Are psychiatrists really the best experts who can help? I know one answer for sure, for Hudson, the best medicine is the character played by Lynn Collins. (19/09/2009)

I already kind of know that Matthew Perry is a pretty good actor. That he usually wastes his talent in rather pointless comedies, that's another matter. However, Numb is a step in the right direction. He did well here, and it's one of those modern comedy-drama films where you actually feel like there's something to it. And indeed there is. Here and there, some clichés sneak in that might disappoint you a bit. True, the ending is also quite expected, but it is bearable. (10/03/2014)

Matthew Perry is not that amazing an actor, but the role he plays in Numb is a perfect fit for him. And I think that if a truly amazing actor had been cast in this role, it would give the film another dimension. Still, Numb is a pleasant, clever movie whose greatest asset is the likability of Lynn Collins and (finally AMAZING) chemistry between her and Perry’s character. A better three stars. (01/11/2008)

What I really like about this movie is that the main character isn't a moron, idiot and doesn't let himself be led around by the nose... at least not for too long. But that's about it. The main couple is likable, the music is too, Perry is no longer just doing Chandler and it suits him well. A feel-good film to sit down to after a tiring day or just to stave off boredom – that's what it's made for. (17/03/2009)