The 40-Year-Old Virgin

The 40-Year-Old Virgin is a 2005 American comedy film directed by Judd Apatow and starring Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Romany Malco, Seth Rogen, and Leslie Mann. The film was produced by Apatow Productions and Universal Pictures, and features a screenplay written by Judd Apatow and Steve Carell, with music composed by Lyle Workman and cinematography by Jack N. Green. The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was later released in the United States by Universal Pictures, receiving widespread critical acclaim from critics such as Roger Ebert and Peter Travers.

Plot

The film tells the story of Andy Stitzer, a shy and awkward man played by Steve Carell, who is still a virgin at the age of 40. Andy Stitzer works at an electronics store called Smart Tech, where he is befriended by his co-workers, including David (played by Paul Rudd), Jay (played by Romany Malco), and Cal (played by Seth Rogen). The group discovers Andy Stitzer's secret and decides to help him lose his virginity, with the help of Trish Piedmont (played by Catherine Keener), a single mother who owns a store across the street from Smart Tech. As Andy Stitzer navigates his relationships with Trish Piedmont and his friends, he must confront his own insecurities and learn to open up to others, with the guidance of Dr. Caron, a sex therapist played by Elizabeth Banks. The film features a range of comedic performances, including Leslie Mann as Nicki, a stripper who becomes infatuated with Andy Stitzer, and Jane Lynch as Paula, a porn star who appears in one of Andy Stitzer's favorite adult films.

Production

The film was produced by Judd Apatow and Clayton Townsend, with Shauna Robertson serving as an executive producer. The screenplay was written by Judd Apatow and Steve Carell, with input from Paul Rudd and Seth Rogen. The film was shot on location in Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley, with additional scenes filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood. The movie features a range of cameos, including appearances by Gerry Bednob as Mooj, a convenience store owner, and Kat Dennings as Marla Piedmont, Trish Piedmont's daughter. The film's soundtrack features a range of songs, including The Carpenters' "Close to You", The Temptations' "(I Know) I'm Losing You", and Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street".

Cast

The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Steve Carell as Andy Stitzer, Paul Rudd as David, Romany Malco as Jay, and Seth Rogen as Cal. The film also stars Leslie Mann as Nicki, Catherine Keener as Trish Piedmont, and Elizabeth Banks as Dr. Caron. The movie features a range of supporting performances, including Jane Lynch as Paula, Gerry Bednob as Mooj, and Kat Dennings as Marla Piedmont. The film's cast also includes Marlon Wayans as Darrell, a Smart Tech employee, and Shelby Young as Nadine, a high school student who appears in one of the film's comedic scenes.

Release

The film was released in the United States on August 19, 2005, by Universal Pictures. The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was later released in Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $282 million worldwide, with a production budget of $26 million. The movie was released on DVD and Blu-ray by Universal Studios Home Entertainment, with a range of special features, including deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary from Judd Apatow and Steve Carell.

Reception

The film received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for its comedic performances, witty screenplay, and heartfelt direction. The movie holds a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 7.9/10, based on reviews from critics such as Roger Ebert and Peter Travers. The film also received positive reviews from Metacritic, with a score of 73 out of 100, based on reviews from critics such as A.O. Scott and Todd McCarthy. The movie was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy.

Impact

The film had a significant impact on the careers of its cast and crew, including Steve Carell, who became a leading comedic actor in Hollywood, and Judd Apatow, who went on to direct and produce several successful films, including Knocked Up and Superbad. The movie also launched the careers of Seth Rogen and Paul Rudd, who became two of the most popular comedic actors in Hollywood. The film's success also paved the way for a range of other comedy films, including Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. The movie has become a cult classic, with a dedicated fan base and a range of memorable quotes and scenes, including the infamous "You know how I know you're gay?"] line, which has become a catchphrase in popular culture.