The Truth Hurts

Last fall, Ricky Gervais headlined Ghost Town, a surprisingly funny romantic comedy about a man who sees ghosts. This fall, Gervais is back, this time as both director and lead actor, with another quirky rom-com about a world where no one can lie and everyone says what they think. However, The Invention of Lying, while funny at times, doesn't live up to it's one-of-a-kind concept.

Gervais plays Mark Bellison, a frumpy, down-on-his-luck screenwriter. Since it's a world without lying (and imagniation), Mark's screenplays are dry historical documentaries. Pretty exciting stuff. After Mark gets rejected by the woman of his dreams (Jennifer Garner), belittled by his snappy coworkers (Tina Fey and Rob Lowe), and fired from his job, he tells the world's first lie. Mark's fibs make him famous, and without giving away too much, a large portion of the film is a commentary on religion and the afterlife.

Anyone who has watched an award show during the past few years knows that Gervais is a comedic all-star. His delivery is spot-on and he knows how to make the most scathing one-liners endearing. While he's an excellent comedian, Gervais' directorial skills need some work. The Invention of Lying suffers from an identity crisis. The film waffles between romantic comedy and biting satire, and doesn't succeed fully on either front.

The supporting cast is stellar and elevates the muddy material. Jennifer Garner mails in her go-to, girl next door persona (perfected in 13 Going on 30), Tina Fey is, well, Tina Fey, and there are quite a few funny cameos from a smattering of stars including Edward Norton and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Though not even a cast this loaded can completely save the film.

There is a strong message to be found in The Invention of Lying, but it's just not as powerful as it should be. However, truthfully speaking, let's hope Gervais' is back soon with a comedy that delivers on his award show potential.

Grade: B