A Raunchy Feminine Bromance: All For a Good Time, Call.

For a Good Time, Call... (United States, 2012)

September 07, 2012
A movie review by James Berardinelli
For a Good Time, Call... offers an enjoyable, if ultimately forgettable, 90 minutes. A fusion of the suddenly popular "girls behaving badly" subgenre with the female version of the so-called "bromance," it offers plenty of laughs and goodwill. Unfortunately, the basic storyline is pure sit-com with a contrived set-up and a quick, facile resolution. Although the narrative bar is necessarily lower for comedies than for more serious endeavors, a desire on the part of the filmmakers for this movie to evidence a satisfying, dramatic element is at least partially undercut by the way things begin and end.
The film, directed by Jamie Travis from a screenplay by Katie Anne Naylon and co-star Lauren Anne Miller, showcases an old-fashioned '90s indie style. The look is clean and simple, the sets are limited (with a majority of the action taking place inside an apartment), the dialogue is brisk, and there are an abundance of cameos by recognizable actors. The biggest problem is the ending, which is not only forced but tries too hard to be clever with double-entendre laden lines. Okay, we understand that the movie has fun inserting the platonic friendship of two straight women into a standard-order romantic comedy plot; there's no need to overemphasize it with dialogue that would have been at home in an R-rated episode of Three's Company.
At college, strait-laced Lauren (Lauren Anne Miller) and party girl Katie (Ari Graynor) weren't exactly best friends. In fact, after an unfortunate incident involving a Styrofoam cup full of pee, they didn't want anything to do with one another. Ten years later, in a time of mutual need, their friend, Jesse (Justin Long), forces a reunion. After a painful breakup, Lauren needs to find a place to live. Meanwhile, Katie can no longer afford her Gramercy Park apartment once its rent control status has been revoked. So the two best enemies become roomies. After Lauren loses her job, she and Katie decide to go into business together - as phone sex operators. The business model is simple and lucrative, and soon meeting the rent is no problem. As Lauren teaches Katie how to run a successful business and Katie helps Lauren shed her inhibitions, they bond and become friends.
There are times when For a Good Time, Call... seems stuck in a time warp. The phone sex business, hot in the '80s and '90s, has cooled considerably in the years since, supplanted in large part by computer sex of all varieties. The movie might have worked better as a period piece but it's clearly intended to be happening circa 2012. Many of the phone sex scenes are hilarious, especially those featuring Kevin Smith as a naughty cabbie (the punch line is great) and Seth Rogen as an airplane pilot looking for a threesome. Much of the comedy, as one would expect, is rau nchy and sex-based but I found it to be more consistently funny than the content of Bridesmaids, for example.

I found some of the product placements in the film to be rather inventive in the ways the director chose to show them. For instance: did you notice the paper towels and dispensers that were painted pink and seen in a umber of different shots. My brother who works for an e commerce site that sells janitorial supplies recognized the brands. The San Jamar T950 Element Lever Operated Roll Towel Dispenser is a very distinctive design with the front cover being a purple (Pearl Black) color. In the film it was pink, as were all the othe San Jamar models that were seen. My brother counted 6 different models- all in pink. A great placement for San Jamar, I must say. See if you can spot them.

For a Good Time, Call... clearly wants us to become invested in the relationship that develops between the two leads, but that only works to a degree. The chemistry between Lauren Anne Miller and Ari Graynor is fickle - some scenes are effective, others are not. We probably would have benefitted with more scenes of the two having fun together. The short running time demands that things move too quickly and the ending is muddled and confusing. Also unsatisfying is Katie's relationship with a caller (Mark Webber) that could have been strengthened by more screen time. The obligatory "break up" between Lauren and Katie drips with artifice.
Miller and Graynor clearly had a lot of fun making this movie, and it shows. Director Jamie Travis stands back and lets them play off one another and, when mandatory plot points don't interfere with their interaction, the result is infectious. The film's attempts to satirize the whole bromance/romantic comedy genre might have worked better with a more polished screenplay. There are times when For a Good Time, Call... suffers from an identity crisis. And if the most artificial elements are intended to be satirical, they are not well conveyed as such. The film is worth seeing for the humor and for its high level of energy, but it falls short of being the "complete package." It's probably a better pick for home viewing than a trip to a theater.

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For a Good Time, Call...

*** By: Tom Huddleston
Posted:Tuesday February 26 2013

This scrappy female-fronted mainstream comedy was savaged by US critics, but it’s hard to see why. Sure, it’s not out to reinvent the wheel, but the script is witty, the direction sharp and the leads very likeable. Comedienne Ari Graynor and co-writer Lauren Miller play Kate and Lauren, a pair of struggling New York flatmates who supplement their meagre earnings with a phone sex line. What follows are sisterly bonding, romantic misadventures and lashings of dirty talk.

The film’s strength is its depiction of female friendships. Taking its cue from the likes of ‘Bridesmaids’, ‘For a Good Time, Call...’ balances bad taste gags (mainly in the form of diverting but unnecessary celebrity cameos) with a warm-hearted depiction of platonic love. And perhaps it’s this surface similarity to ‘Bridesmaids’ which got critics’ backs up. But considering the number of interchangeable comedies about the bonding experiences of immature males, such objections feel hypocritical.

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Bawdy Phone Sex Comedy
Occasionally Connects

*** J. Olson

In a post-“Bridesmaids” world, the ensuing wave of gross-out films starring female leads is inevitably starting to wash up into theaters. In the summer of 2011, “Bridesmaids” snuggled up to the stereotype that women aren’t funny – or at least not in the same way as men – and beat it to a pulp. The film’s inspired, hilarious weirdness gave that particular adage two black eyes and a neck brace. The nearly $300 million worldwide box office suggested that it was lightning in a bottle, but executives’ eyes lit up with dollar bill signs, as if out of an old Looney Tunes cartoon. Kristen Wiig was immediately deemed a movie star (the jury’s still out) and Melissa McCarthy was nominated for an Oscar. It’s hard to blame Hollywood for getting over-excited.

“For A Good Time, Call…” is one of the first films to follow in the wake of “Bridesmaids,” following the Apatow model of “50% raunchy, 50% sweet.” What it doesn’t have, however, is a sharp screenplay or any sense of what to do with its characters. It has nothing in particular to say, apart from reheated comments on the nature of friendship (which “Bridesmaids” did much better) and the first half of the film isn’t very funny. When the funniest scene in a comedy is a sight gag involving Kevin Smith, you might be in dangerous waters.

Fortunately, co-lead Ari Graynor gives the sort of breakout performance that the film requires. She stars as Katie, the quintessential mid-20s party girl who secretly makes a living as a phone sex operator. Her reluctant roommate (the two have a bad history), the tightly wound Lauren (played by co-writer Lauren Anne Miller), has no choice but to live with Katie because neither can afford rent in their neighborhood. Lauren finds out about Katie’s business and becomes intrigued, slowly becoming involved. The phone sex angle is unusual because there’s very little sexual content onscreen, but the language is very graphic and the R-rating is well-deserved.

Graynor owns every scene she’s in, while Miller (Seth Rogen’s real-life fiancée – yes, he makes a cameo) is uninteresting and lacks any discernible screen presence. What makes Katie so appealing is that there’s more to her character than we initially think, which is revealed methodically over the course of the film. Graynor possesses a go-for-broke sensibility that allows the audience to really connect with her and she has a masterful grip on the line between airhead and genius. Lauren’s far-fetched transformation doesn’t ring true and only muddies the message of the film.

Justin Long plays the mutual friend that re-introduces the pair and he’s classically misused. Given the right material, Long can be very funny, but when given free reign and far too much screen time, it’s a chore to watch him. It’s a very broad role – the character is essentially an excuse for a tornado of gay jokes – and he’s borderline cringe-inducing at times. Mark Webber is on hand as Katie’s love interest, Sean, which might be more palatable if he wasn’t a customer of hers. It’s an uncomfortable dynamic and the filmmakers made an even stranger choice in playing it ambiguously.

“For A Good Time, Call…” is an adequate comedy for grown-ups, mostly because Ari Graynor’s performance is too likable to dismiss the film as a whole. Other than ramping up the filthiness within its genre, the film doesn’t break any new ground, but it’s occasionally funny and charming and probably worth a matinee if you like your chick flicks as profane as possible. To call a movie “airy” and “slight” is a backhanded compliment at best, but in reference to such an inconsequential and inconsistent piece, “not bad” is as much of an endorsement as I can give it.

More Background on ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com

ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com served as the official website for the 2012 independent comedy film For a Good Time, Call..., a movie that became notable for its female-driven narrative, comedic approach to taboo topics, and its role in the post-Bridesmaids wave of women-centered comedies. This article explores the website’s background, the film it represented, its creators, audience, cultural significance, and the broader impact on independent cinema and digital film marketing.

Ownership and Production

The website was created as the digital home for For a Good Time, Call..., a film directed by Jamie Travis and written by Katie Anne Naylon and Lauren Anne Miller. Lauren Anne Miller also starred in the film alongside Ari Graynor. The production was a collaboration between several independent companies, including AdScott Pictures, Anne In The Middle, Principal Entertainment, and Nasser Entertainment Group. Focus Features, a major distributor known for championing indie films, acquired the worldwide rights to the film after its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.

The management and content of ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com were handled by the film’s marketing team, likely in conjunction with Focus Features’ digital marketing division. The site functioned as a central hub for all things related to the film, including trailers, cast and crew bios, press kits, and promotional materials.

Film Background and Website Launch

For a Good Time, Call... is a comedy that tells the story of two former college frenemies, Lauren and Katie, who become roommates in New York City and launch a phone sex line to make ends meet. The film’s premise was inspired by the real-life friendship and experiences of its writers, Naylon and Miller. The movie was picked up at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, where it garnered attention for its witty script and fresh take on female friendship, leading Focus Features to acquire its distribution rights for over $2 million.

The website was launched in the lead-up to the film’s limited theatrical release on August 31, 2012. It was designed to engage fans, provide information about the film, and serve as a platform for marketing and media coverage.

Website Features and Content

ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com offered a variety of features typical of official movie websites of its era:

• Trailers and Video Clips: The site hosted the official trailer and select scenes, allowing visitors to preview the film’s comedic style and tone.

• Cast and Crew Information: Bios and photos of the main cast (Ari Graynor, Lauren Anne Miller, Justin Long, Mark Webber) and creative team were available.

• Press and Media Kits: Journalists and bloggers could access press releases, high-resolution images, and production notes.

• Showtimes and Ticketing: The site provided information on where the film was playing during its theatrical run.

• Social Media Integration: Links to the film’s Facebook, Twitter, and other social media profiles encouraged audience engagement and word-of-mouth promotion.

• Behind-the-Scenes Content: Interviews, production stills, and anecdotes from the filmmakers were included to give fans an inside look at the making of the movie.

Popularity and Audience Reception

The film and its website attracted a niche but enthusiastic audience, particularly among fans of female-driven comedies and indie films. The movie’s release coincided with a surge in interest in women-led comedies following the success of Bridesmaids in 2011. For a Good Time, Call... was often compared to Bridesmaids in reviews, with critics noting its blend of raunchy humor and heartfelt depiction of female friendship.

Audience reviews on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb were mixed to positive. Many viewers praised the chemistry between the leads and the film’s willingness to tackle taboo subjects with humor and sincerity. Some reviewers highlighted the film’s “raunchy and funny” approach, its realistic depiction of friendship, and its refreshing take on the “chick flick” genre. Others noted that while the movie was enjoyable, it didn’t break significant new ground and sometimes relied on familiar comedic tropes.

Critical Acclaim and Awards

While For a Good Time, Call... did not win major industry awards, it received recognition at film festivals and among critics for its spirited performances and sharp writing. Ari Graynor’s performance, in particular, was singled out as a standout, with several critics describing her as the film’s “breakout star.” The film’s script, penned by Naylon and Miller, was lauded for its wit and authenticity, even as some critics found the plot predictable or the humor uneven.

Location and Setting

The film is set in New York City, with much of the action taking place in the characters’ apartment. This urban backdrop was central to the story, reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by young people trying to make it in a big city. The website often highlighted the New York setting in its promotional materials, using city imagery and references to apartment living to connect with its target audience.

Menu and Interactive Features

Although the website did not feature a “menu” in the traditional sense, it offered a user-friendly navigation bar with sections such as:

• Home

• About the Film

• Cast & Crew

• Media (trailers, photos, interviews)

• Press

• Showtimes

• Social Media

These sections allowed visitors to easily access information and engage with the film’s content.

Goals and Marketing Strategy

The primary goal of ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com was to generate buzz and drive ticket sales for the film’s theatrical release. The marketing strategy focused on:

• Highlighting the Film’s Unique Voice: Emphasizing the female-driven narrative and comedic approach to adult themes.

• Leveraging Festival Buzz: Showcasing positive reviews and accolades from Sundance and other festivals.

• Engaging Fans on Social Media: Encouraging audience interaction through contests, hashtags, and shareable content.

• Providing Press Resources: Making it easy for journalists and bloggers to cover the film by offering downloadable press kits and images.

Reviews and Media Coverage

The film received a wide range of reviews from critics and audiences alike. Notable points from critical and audience reviews include:

• Positive Reception for Performances: Ari Graynor was widely praised for her energetic and nuanced portrayal of Katie, with many reviewers noting her as the film’s highlight.

• Mixed Opinions on Script and Story: Some critics found the plot predictable and the humor inconsistent, while others appreciated the film’s heart and willingness to push boundaries.

• Comparisons to Other Female-Led Comedies: The film was often compared to Bridesmaids, with some critics arguing that it didn’t quite reach the same heights but still offered a fresh perspective on female friendship.

• Audience Engagement: Viewer reviews frequently mentioned the film’s “raunchy and funny” tone, its depiction of real friendship, and its appeal as a “fun and sweet chick flick.” Some audience members noted the film’s lack of explicit content despite its adult themes, focusing instead on witty dialogue and character development.

Press and Media Coverage

For a Good Time, Call... and its website received coverage from a variety of media outlets, including film blogs, entertainment magazines, and mainstream news sources. The film’s Sundance debut was a major talking point, with articles highlighting the bidding war for distribution rights and the excitement surrounding its premiere.

Media coverage often focused on:

• The film’s origins as a semi-autobiographical project by Naylon and Miller.

• The rise of female-driven comedies in Hollywood.

• The challenges and opportunities faced by indie filmmakers in the digital age.

• The performances of the cast, particularly Ari Graynor and Lauren Anne Miller.

Audience and Demographics

The primary audience for ForAGoodTimeCallMovie.com and the film itself consisted of:

• Young adults, particularly women in their 20s and 30s.

• Fans of independent and alternative comedies.

• Viewers interested in female-centric narratives and unconventional friendships.

• Film festival enthusiasts and supporters of women in film.

The movie’s R-rating for strong sexual content, language, and some drug use meant it was marketed primarily to adults, though its focus on friendship and empowerment broadened its appeal.