Fans say the little-known film will leave everyone watching it feeling better
Niamh Spence Freelance Showbiz Reporter and Jane Lavender Associate Editor
08:00, 10 Jan 2026
Few fans have heard of the film(Image: )
A Jim Carrey comedy has been hailed by viewers as ‘inspiring’ and ‘heartwarming’, and it’s broadcasting on ITV2 this evening.
Yes Man, which hit cinemas in 2008, draws from Danny Wallace’s book and centres on pessimistic bank worker Carl Allen (Jim Carrey) who, following his divorce-induced downward spiral, goes to a motivational workshop where he commits to accepting every opportunity for 12 months, resulting in madcap, unpredictable, and ultimately life-changing adventures as he welcomes fresh experiences, discovers how to connect with others, and finds romance with bohemian Allison (Zooey Deschanel).
Carrey, recognised as one of Tinseltown’s most celebrated comedic performers, has amassed an outstanding filmography including Liar Liar, The Mask, The Grinch, Bruce Almighty and numerous others, yet this particular offering showcases quintessential Jim Carrey humour, with cinema enthusiasts calling it ‘underrated’ and ‘heartwarming’.
Fans can’t get enough of the film(Image: )
Critics on film review platform Rotten Tomatoes have also given it positive feedback, with one saying: “Not as good as other Jim Carrey movies, but it will still bring a few laughs to your face.”
Another added: “A comedy with a suprisingly good message while being funny, heartwarming and ridiculous.”, reports the Mirror.
“Definitely an underrated comedy. Jim Carrey hasn’t always had success toning down his energy, but this time around he plays it really well with a believable character in a script that’s pretty funny. Truth be told I DON’T believe him and Zoey Deschanel together, but the story’s pretty great and deserves at least 1 watch,” raved a third viewer.
A fourth fan posted: “This film has a strong, interesting message. Yes, it’s got the usual Jim Carrey goofiness, but it’s not only entertaining but leaves you feeling better and more inspired than when you started.”
It stars Jim Carrey and Zooey Deschanel(Image: )
Another said: “I know a lot of people criticized this as just another wacky Jim Carrey movie, but it was so much more than that. The premise was interesting, the story was light and amusing, and the acting was surprisingly good. (Can’t say that about too many of his comedies).
“There were some of the familiar Carrey antics we’ve come to know and love, but it was used sparingly and never felt too over-the-top. I also found the overall message to be quite relevant and inspiring. About taking chances, because you never know what good things you might be missing out on.
“I thought Jim and Zooey had decent chemistry together, which made the unlikely romance all the more touching. Just a heartfelt romantic comedy that deserves more praise than it gets.”
Another wrote: “My favourite movie with the funniest actor. It has some great lessons for life, and is extremely funny. You will feel great after watching it.”
Yes Man airs on Saturday 10 January on ITV2 at 6.25pm.
