My Super Ex-Girlfriend (2006)

"My Super Ex-Girlfriend" (2006) is a surprisingly inventive and comedic romp that, while not a masterpiece, perfectly captures the lighthearted spirit of Ivan Reitman's best work. The film boasts a winning premise: when New York architect Matt Saunders dumps his new girlfriend Jenny Johnson – a smart, sexy, and reluctantly heroic superhero known as G-Girl – she uses her powers to make his life a living hell! The ensuing chain of escalating, often absurd, punishments is played for laughs, with a healthy dose of slapstick and witty dialogue. The movie leans into the absurd, avoiding the pitfalls of taking itself too seriously, and features a decent cast, most notably the energetic and appealing Uma Thurman in a comedic turn that often overshadows a rather forgettable lead. While not renowned for its profound thematic depth or stylistic innovation, "My Super Ex-Girlfriend" fits comfortably into the pantheon of Ivan Reitman's best movies due to its core comedic sensibilities. Reitman consistently directed films with a distinct visual style characterized by broad humor and witty banter. He excels at finding the funny in situations with improbable characters, and this film delivers on both counts. The film’s energetic pacing, a hallmark of Reitman’s work, and its willingness to embrace the ludicrous and embrace the quirky tone are indicative of the director’s strengths, ensuring it’s an enjoyable popcorn flick that warrants a place amongst his more successful and lighter efforts.