The Full Monty finds both pathos and laughs in its farfetched conceit, avoiding the pitfalls of sappiness and shtik. Odds are good you'll exit grinning.

From this grim working-class prospect, The Full Monty creates a lovable comedy.

It's a familiar show-biz routine but one that's spangled with happy surprises and sharp acting.

A well-written farce that has lovable -- though pathetic -- characters and the kind of offbeat humor only found in British films.