These Going the Distance movie reviews are for anyone who’s yet to make up their mind about this romantic comedy involving a newly single young man (Justin Long) who meets a witty waitress played by Drew Barrymore. While their relationship begins as nothing more than a fling, it slowly begins to develop into something else, much to the amazement of family and friends.

Some might view it as only a chick flick, but even guys may get a kick out of it. To be sure, read the following Going the Distance movie reviews. On a side note, you might also be interested to know that Barrymore and Long have dated in real life, which might explain the praise heaped all over their on-screen chemistry.

• Amber Wilkinson of Eye for Film - Drew Barrymore draws praise, being called the “go-to woman for funny females.” She also mentions that the genuine emotions and situations make Going the Distance a winner.
• Carrie Rickey of The Philadelphia Inquirer – This critic recommends Going the Distance for anyone who’s looking to smile. She also has good things to say about the film’s fresh approach and the work of director Nanette Burstein.
• Ken Hanke of Mountain Xpress – Hanke has a major problem with this film’s screenplay, noting that even the chemistry generated between Long and Barrymore can’t overcome it. He does, however, cite moments of “genuine charm.”
• Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian – This UK critic calls Going the Distance “a long haul.” That’s not meant as a compliment, by the way.
• Tom Long of Detroit News – Long says the film pushes the rom-com envelope thanks to a raunchy script peppered with profanity and references to 1980s pop culture. He calls it The Hangover meets Letters to Juliet.
• Elliott Noble of Sky Movies – Noble is yet another critic who notes the winning chemistry between the two leads, even going so far as to call Barrymore “illegal-to-dislike.” While noting that the situations and characters are “strictly stock,” he does compliment the director’s first foray into the realm of fiction.
• James King of Little White Lies – Another UK critic and another positive review of Going the Distance. While noting that there are cliches to be found, he also praises “a script that revels in boozy, sweary and frank discussions of life’s curveballs that only toil-worn thirty-somethings could have.”
• Tom Horgen of The Minneapolis Star Tribune – While other critics noted that the film’s foul language provided a much-needed balance, Horgen doesn’t agree. He’s also not happy about all the rom-com cliches or the obvious influence of Judd Apatow.
• Dana Stevens of Slate – Stevens would have liked the movie if it had featured more of everything. That includes more jokes, more complications for the couple, and more sex.
• Andrew O’Hehir of Salon.com – While referring to Going the Distance as “thoroughly forgettable entertainment,” Mr. O’Hehir does recommend the film based on the often racy situations and Barrymore’s distinctive pep and horsey laugh.

That concludes our look at Going the Distance movie reviews. If you’ve already seen it, be sure to give us your thoughts in the comments section, as opinions from readers can also be of help. Until next time, check out these other fine movie review lists from A1:

• Takers Movie Reviews
• Rampage Movie Reviews
• Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Reviews