This Is 40

Judd Apatow revives characters from Knocked Up (2005) in this spin-off starring Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd. Attempting a Lena Dunham-esque take on the dreaded turn of 40, it sees Debbie (Mann)'s fear of unhappiness kick in, sparking a series of panicked life changes for the whole family (cue montage of medical check-ups, fitness regimes and ceremonious cupcake binging) – much to the chagrin of their offspring, teen Sadie and marginalised Charlotte (played by Apatow and Mann’s real-life daughters).

The script is as haphazard as its premise, with the director’s trademark improvisation creating messy scenes – some so long they seem to usher in middle-age – which barely adhere to an overall arc and are wrought with more tension than laughs, as finances, extended family, and untrustworthy employees complicate matters. Decent turns from Megan Fox and Jason Segel do little to lighten the tone, making this a family drama that lacks structure and salvages only a little heart.