Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Cal Weaver seems to have the kind of life many people envy, a stable job, a comfortable home, and a loving wife. But everything changes when Emily admits an affair and asks for a divorce, leaving Cal suddenly single and unsure how to date in the real world. At over 40 he feels adrift, wondering if romance can still work for him. Then enters Jacob Palmer, a stylish, self confident bachelor who has turned dating into a craft and offers to mentor Cal. What follows is a string of blunt lessons and awkward misfires as Cal rediscovers his appeal while the movie threads in other couples who wrestle with trust, desire, and second chances without tipping into cynicism. It treats love as imperfect but worth pursuing.

Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, the film was written by Dan Fogelman, with a tight, witty sensibility. Released in 2011, it blends comedy and drama as an ensemble romance that aims to reflect modern dating in an accessible, emotionally honest way.

It performed solidly at the box office, earning a substantial worldwide gross and resonating with adult audiences through its mix of humor and relatable relationship dilemmas. The film proved that romantic comedies can deliver warmth and laughs without slipping into formula.

Crazy, Stupid, Love helped define a late era of ensemble romantic comedies by weaving several threads of romance into one cohesive, character driven story. Ryan Gosling as Jacob Palmer and Emma Stone as Hannah became standout presences whose chemistry lingered in conversations and highlight reels.

Critics generally welcomed the movie for its blend of light humor and sincere emotion, and for letting multiple relationships feel earned rather than played for easy laughs. It examines fidelity, vulnerability, and growth, showing how people change when they admit their flaws and choose honesty.