| By Forrest Hartman
Gannett News Service Sex comedy has brains, heart of an independent movie Move over "American Pie." Director Michael Lehmann has come up with a smarter breed of sex comedy. In "40 Days and 40 Nights," he introduces the trials of a young San Franciscan named Matt (Josh Hartnett). Six months after getting dumped by the love of his life, Matt is jumping from woman to woman but can't commit to anyone. In an effort to work his way out of the mire, Matt vows to give up all forms of sex during Lent. When his friends get word of his pledge, they do their best to make sure he breaks it; and a chance meeting with the exotic and beautiful Erica Sutton (Shannyn Sossamon) make things even tougher. The premise is rather silly, but played as a farce it works just fine. For Lehmann, the movie is a nice return to form. His work since 1989's "Heathers" has been spotty, as evidenced by the Billy Crystal disaster "My Giant," but "40 Days" has the heart and brains of an independent. Hartnett, best known for his dramatic outings in "Pearl Harbor," "Black Hawk Down" and "O," is a fast-rising star with comedic talent, and he plays Matt straight. This approach is perfect because it allows the actors around him to cut up. Sossamon got her breakthrough role in last year's "A Knight's Tale," and she proves an excellent partner for Hartnett. The camera loves her, and in "40 Days" she proves she has acting chops to support her beautiful smile. In the scenes between Hartnett and Sossamon the tone is mostly serious, as they form a deep love while avoiding all forms of physical intimacy, including kissing. At one point they have what equates to a sex scene without touching one another. It's remarkably well done, and Lehmann makes it steamier than most traditional love scenes. Sossamon and Hartnett get plenty of support. Offbeat characters that are as lovable as they are wacky populate the film. Particularly outstanding is Paulo Costanzo, as Matt's roommate, Ryan. Costanzo plays the role with zest, providing comic relief at the most appropriate moments. Ryan, by the way, is the one who blabs about Matt's vow, prompting some pals to start a Web site that lets the world know his secret. Before long, Matt is an international sensation. As good as the acting is, Lehmann and screenwriter Robert Perez deserve most of the credit for the film's success. Unlike many teen comedies, "40 Days" makes smart observations about both sexes, and it's skillfully crafted. That doesn't mean we avoid the typical one-liners. It does mean we move beyond them. Miramax is giving the film a wide opening, and a sex comedy starring Hartnett is almost guaranteed a mainstream following. But that hasn't kept Lehmann from giving "40 Days" the look and feel of a spirited, independent comedy. With the exception of the 2001 Oscar contenders that are hanging around to soak up maximum box office, good movies have been tough to come by this year. Finally, "The Count of Monte Cristo" has company. Published 02.28.02 | 
