Chuck and Larry are two New York City firefighters that are completely opposite. Chuck (Adam Sandler) is a "ladies man" and Larry (Kevin James) is a single father of two children. Chuck almost dies when the floor of a burned building gives way. Larry saves his life by protecting him from debris. Grateful, Chuck vows to repay Larry by whatever means possible. The close call leads Larry to think about his own life and children and what would happen to them, if he would perish in a fire. Trying to name beneficiaries for his insurance policy, he runs into difficulty and it is suggested that all his problems would be solved if he would again marry. Upon reading an article about domestic partnerships, Larry asks Chuck to enter into a civil union with him. Chuck is initially against the idea, but is reminded how indebted he is to Larry for saving him. The two become domestic partners but are soon under fire, suspected of committing fraud. The two marry in Canada and move in together. Chuck's past comes back to haunt him as his many women come forward to confess their relationships with him. Facing the reality of their sham union, the pair realizes that they are in over their heads and make a deal to help others.
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Best part of story, including ending:
This movie was not well received by critics and it wasn't a great film, but I took it from a different angle than the critics. The critics saw the disrespect for legitimate civil partnership in this country. I took the politics out of it and saw the film for friends helping one another through thick and thin, in a platonic love and helping one another.
Best scene in story:
When Fred (Ving Rhames) comes out and sings in the shower, it was funny and showed me that in their own ways, Chuck and Larry's sham had helped someone really gay to be open and honest with himself.
Opinion about the main character:
I am not sure, even in the name of friendship, if I would ever do for another what Chuck did for Larry, but beyond the gay overtones, Chuck proved that true friendship and gratitude are worthy traits for all.
