Larry Crowne | Empty Calories

Season 21, Episode 2

Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts bring the star power, but is that enough to make Larry Crowne memorable? In this episode of Forgotten Cinema, we head back to 2011 for a charming-but-lightweight romantic dramedy written and directed by Hanks himself.

It plays like cinematic comfort food — pleasant while you're watching, but not much to chew on afterward. We talk about the film’s easygoing vibe, Hanks’ likable lead performance, and the strange sense that nothing ever really happens. Is that the point? Or is Larry Crowne just too laid-back for its own good?

Plus, shoutout to a surprisingly stacked supporting cast—including Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, and Bryan Cranston.

Larry Crowne

Written by Tom Hanks and Nia Vardalos

Directed by Tom Hanks

Starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, Bryan Cranston

Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | More Links