If you've seen Superbad or Knocked Up, you know what to expect in terms of the kind of humor and the film's direction. One thing I really enjoyed about this film was how it manages to be funny without turning its characters into two dimensional charicatures (see Will Farrell comedies like Anchorman or Semi-Pro). Even the titular Sarah Marshall, who in an Adam Sandler version of this story would be portrayed as an uncompromising bitch, is given dimension and even a chance to grow as a character. There is a key scene later in the film where the audience is given a chance to sympathize with her actions, which is rare in this type of film.

This is one of the things that helps elevate the film above its competition, the characters themselves aren't funny, so much as what they say or do is funny. This allows us to more easily accept the moments where they act in a serious manner (which in a Will Farrell movie everyone would lean forward waiting for him to utter the punch line).

There are plenty of great jokes in the film in addition to visual gags. The musical numbers are hilarious as well.

The entire cast is excellent in the film. Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars, Heroes) and Mila Kunis (That 70's Show, Macaulay Culkin's girlfriend…wtf?) being the most recognizable. Jason Segel, who also wrote the film, plays a very convincing everyman most people should be able to relate to. Part of this is of course due to the fact this is based on an actual breakup he had.

Beyond Segel's obvious autobiographical touches, I couldn't help but notice some parallels between Sarah Marshall and Kristen Bell. Both starred in detective shows that were cancelled and ended up on shows on NBC where they have superpowers. This distracted me from the film a bit, but I think it wouldn't be a problem for most people and it set up some pretty good jokes (including Billy Baldwin nailing the male lead-CSI predictable punch line in a sarcastic tone during a scene where jokes probably aren't appropriate. It also sets up a Jason Bateman cameo where he delivers a pretty funny line that ends the film on a high note).

I definitely recommend this film. It seems like it'd be great for guys looking for a funny movie and girls looking for a romantic comedy.