When in Rome

‘When in Rome’ is no ‘Roman Holiday’. Comparisons to the evergreen classic are natural in a sense that ‘When in Rome’ is based in the same charming city. But the protagonist of this new movie isn’t a princess. She’s a bitter New Yorker, irritated and frustrated of living life on the high lane. With her romantic fantasies smashed by the hammering of time, Beth takes a trip to Rome to inject some fresh meaning in life. She inadvertently puts herself in a compromising situation by picking up a handful of coins from a wishing well.

All those coins change her life. Suddenly Beth finds herself pursued by a litany of suitors. There’s a business magnate, played by Danny DeVito. The list also contains a lean street magician (Jon Heder), an adorable painter (Will Arnett) and also a vain, male model (Dax Shepherd). It’s not just this seemingly eclectic mix of suitors. Beth also finds herself dealing with the charming ways of a smitten reporter (Josh Duhamel) who tries to persuade her into thinking that true love isn’t a world of fairytales and fantasy.

Kristen Bell tries hard to be faithful to the character and do full justice to her role. But her efforts do not bear much fruit. There’s something missing, as is the case with the rest of the movie. Bell’s Beth tries to rise above the very mediocre screenplay and deliver a knockout. But every time she looks good to do that, the sagging screenplay and weak dialogues pull her down. The plot, too, loses its way after some initial reels. Better stay home and watch satellite TV than head for the theaters for this one!