Is Failure to Launch Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Failure to Launch is likely a skip if you enjoy Romance movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Failure to Launch Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2006, Failure to Launch emerges as a significant entry in the Romance, Comedy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of At 35, Tripp has an interesting job, a hip car, a passion for sailing, an active dating life, and a great house - trouble is, he still lives with his parents, Al and Sue, who are not happy about it. Unlike standard genre fare, Failure to Launch attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Romance is often anchored by its ensemble, and Failure to Launch features a noteworthy lineup led by Matthew McConaughey . Supported by the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker and Zooey Deschanel , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Failure to Launch (2006) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Failure to Launch Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Failure to Launch is a Romance, Comedy film that explores the complexities of love and relationships with emotional depth and authenticity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. At 35, Tripp has an interesting job, a hip car, a passion for sailing, an active dating life, and a great house - trouble is, he still lives with his parents, Al and Sue, who are not happy about it. Al and Sue are fascinated when friends whose adult son has recently moved away from home reveal they hired an expert to help. In desperation to push Tripp out of the nest once and for all, Al and Sue hatch a plan to hire Paula, an "interventionist," who has a formula in these cases. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Failure to Launch Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Failure to Launch attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to romance resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the romance themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Failure to Launch reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Failure to Launch?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Romance films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Failure to Launch Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $50.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $130.2M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Failure to Launch Budget
The estimated production budget for Failure to Launch is $50.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Failure to Launch
- Matthew McConaughey – Tripp
- Sarah Jessica Parker – Paula
- Zooey Deschanel – Kit
- Justin Bartha – Ace
- Bradley Cooper – Demo
Top Highlights
Matthew McConaugheyTripp
Sarah Jessica ParkerPaula
Zooey DeschanelKit
Justin BarthaAce
Bradley CooperDemo
Terry BradshawAl
Kathy BatesSue
Tyrel Jackson WilliamsJeffrey
Katheryn WinnickMelissa
Rob CorddryGun Salesman
Where to Watch Failure to Launch Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Failure to Launch is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains romantic content. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, Failure to Launch stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2006 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Failure to Launch movie hit or flop?
Failure to Launch has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Failure to Launch worth watching?
Failure to Launch is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Romance, Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Failure to Launch online?
Failure to Launch may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Failure to Launch Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Failure to Launch
A simply OK film, though the last 20/30 minutes or so does drag a tad. Matthew McConaughey is good, Sarah Jessica Parker is good, the support cast (which includes an early role of Bradley Cooper's) are good. I didn't overly enjoy what I was watching, but I wasn't particularly bored with it either. I don't really have much to say about it in truth. At around 90 minutes, it doesn't overstay its welcome. That makes it a watchable, if slightly forgettable, flick from 2006 in my books.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
Browse All Box Office ReportsGlobal Hit-or-Flop VerdictsIs it Worth Watching? GuideIs Failure to Launch Worth Watching?Failure to Launch Box Office VerdictFailure to Launch Collection & BudgetWhere to Watch Failure to Launch OnlineMore Romance MoviesMore Comedy MoviesMatthew McConaughey Movies & Hits
