So it’s perfectly ok that this sweet little comedy didn’t make me laugh very much… because I smiled instead. Yeah, this isn’t a laugh riot but it’s so earnest and sweet, I found my middle-of-the-road three stars start to seem mean. I had to raise the rating because hating this movie feels wrong.

Happiness for Beginners stars Ellie Kemper as a newly divorced woman who goes on a multi-day group wilderness hike in order to find herself again.

This movie is full of fun characters played by good actors… plus pretty scenery. It’s not much more than that. I didn’t laugh all that much but I engaged with their stories and came away with a warm-hearted feeling. It’s such a pleasant, nice movie that being mean to it… seems mean.

Ellie Kemper is her usual fun, chipper self… not stretching herself but we don’t really need her to for this kind of movie. I enjoyed her personal character growth and the romance angle made me smile.

I don’t have a lot more to say. It’s a fun little watch, not too stressful and not too slow. I recommend it… unless you are a great big meanie.

Score: 81