As is always the case, Morgan Freeman brings a touch of dignity to his part - in this case, an aging hit man who has turned almost philosophical. Unfortunately, Chris Rock is not nearly as impressive as Freeman's sidekick. Rock's confrontational, in-your-face approach makes him seem like he's appearing in a different movie.

 

It's an abrasive performance that alienates the audience while simultaneously making Freeman appear to be even more the consummate professional. Meanwhile, Greg Kinnear brings his trademarked brand of suave insincerity to the role of the soap actor who plays Betty's true love. The intriguing supporting cast includes Pruitt Taylor Vince, Crispin Glover, LaBute regular Aaron Eckhart, and Tia Texada as Betty's Latina roommate in L.A.

 

The best part of Nurse Betty is the climax, which gains a comic momentum of its own. Without revealing any details, I can say that a few unexpected things happen during this sequence, which also offers the most overtly humorous moments of the film.

 

LaBute ends on a high note,which is a credit to him,his cast, and screenwriters John Richards & James Flamberg. Once again, the director has distinguished him as that rare Hollywood commodity: someone who is willing to take a chance on an unconventional project and turn it into something enjoyable.