Kissing a Fool

REVIEW
Schwimmer works against type as a dunderheaded slimeball, as opposed to the sweet dunderhead on "Friends." Here he plays an egomaniacal sports anchor who, engaged to Avital, gets cold feet. He convinces old college chum Lee to try to seduce her. There are more complications than necessary for a 90-minute film, none of which will surprise. Lee does his usual inspired schtick, giving each line reading a gusto that clashes with the rest of the flat movie. Avital is clearly in Minnie Driver territory: cute, smart, bland. Schwimmer fails to make a difference between an annoying character and an annoying performance. Blame for the film's failure must rest with him, since he also executive produced and recruited buddy Ellin to write and direct. Here's an easy tip for further "Friends" viewing: avoid male Friends (Ed, The Pallbearer), go ahead with female Friends (The Opposite of Sex, The Object of My Affection).