This Is 40

Judd Apatow's This Is 40 (US, 2012) - Judd Apatow's instincts have rarely been sharper, wiser or more relatable than in "This Is 40," an acutely perceptive, emotionally generous laffer about the joys and frustrations of marriage and middle age. Boasting the empathy, texture and underlying seriousness that have characterized the filmmaker's output, this warts-and-all family portrait is anchored by splendid turns from Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann, reprising their already full-bodied supporting roles from "Knocked Up." Although a more mature work than its 2007 predecessor in every sense, "This" is still a bracingly ribald, foul-mouthed affair that will score as a year-end crowdpleaser and home-format favorite. RATING: 7.