The 2007 comedy film Knocked Up is set to air on BBC One tonight at 11:25pm, bringing its all-star cast to viewers nearly a decade after its original release. The film, a box office hit that earned $219 million globally, has remained a favourite comfort watch for audiences, who have praised its script and performances in online reviews.
A Judd Apatow classic with a standout cast
Directed by Judd Apatow, who also wrote the screenplay, Knocked Up joins his roster of hit films including This is 40, Funny People and The 40-Year-Old Virgin. While Apatow's involvement boosted the project, it was the chemistry between lead actors Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen that drew audiences in.
Heigl plays Alison Scott, an L.A. resident who has just secured an on-air reporting position at E!. Rogen stars as Ben Stone, a work-shy character who relies on injury compensation payouts and occasionally contributes to a celebrity website, alongside his housemates.
Plot and critical reception
The mismatched pair meet during a night out and, after an impulsive one-night stand, discover they are expecting a baby. The story follows their journey towards possible parenthood as they try to reconcile their contrasting lifestyles.
Reviews have been glowing. One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer said: "This is a surprisingly deep and funny movie. Most movies of this genre lack depth and are just comedy, but this has deeper messages and themes that make it very memorable." Another viewer wrote: "Absolutely hilarious from start to finish. The plot was very good as well. Cheering for Seth Rogen the whole movie and genially facepalming over all of his dumb mistakes."
The supporting cast includes Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jay Baruchel, Jonah Hill, Jason Segel and Martin Starr, with multiple reviews crediting the ensemble and the sharp comedic screenplay. One review described it as "absolutely hilarious with the quick-witted writing and natural acting from the stacked cast," adding it is "surprisingly realistic with both the good and bad of modern relationships."
Knocked Up airs on BBC One tonight at 11:25pm.
