The marketing people in charge of Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist blew it. As a member of the esteemed DECA, as well as a real-live teenager, I think they should heed my advice. First, we are not fooled into thinking that a $9,000,000 budget move is “indie.” And second, we do not go and see a movie just because we think it’s “indie.”

That said, not everyone on the Nick and Norah crew screwed up. The ads made it look sort of dumb, yes, but it was surprisingly funny and cute.

Michael Cera plays, well…Michael Cera. The movie’s more Juno than Superbad, but anyone who’s seen either can attest to Cera’s ability to play the awkward charmer. In this one, he’s nursing a month-old broken heart over Tris, your classic skanky beeyotch. The film opens with a painfully pathetic phone call, in which he explains to Tris how he’s taking a “personal day,” which, of course, has nothing to do with her.

Norah, the other namesake of the movie, is the daughter of a wealthy music producer. Despite being quite attractive, for Nick she’s sloppy seconds to Tris. For lack of a better word, she has a “bene-friend” named Tal, who clearly uses her for her dad and sex. Needless to say, she’s pretty insecure and mad at the world.

Much like Center School and Nova kids, both Nick and Norah can’t get enough of that alternative music. Fate brings the two of them together at — where else? — an indie concert. Norah, who has accidentally told Tris that she has a boyfriend, asks Nick to be her faux-beau for “five minutes.” To prove the status of their relationship, the two kiss.

Their awkward introduction, made more awkward because Michael Cera is Michael Cera, marks the beginning of a jam-packed night on the town. With separate encouragement from Nick’s flamingly homosexual band-mates, the two brood over the possibility of romance. Norah gains a confident mentality and Nick gains an open mind. They’re all set.

Commence the witty banter. The whole movie is full of witty banter, but not the annoying, too-punchy kind. Their dialogue doesn’t seem scripted; it’s just clear that Michael Cera and Kat Dennings have chemistry.

Together, they drive all around New York City in search of a surprise concert from their favorite band. They transition from being strangers, to acquaintances, to friends, and finally to lovers. Insecurites are revealed and passions are declared. It’s all very cute and heartwarming to watch.

Although Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist was entertaining, it fell short in leaving a lasting impression. It was fun to watch, yes, but it’s purpose was never made clear. Did it serve only to entertain? To leave a warm, fuzzy feeling in viewers? The movie’s lack of message is what seperates it from the truly great.

One warning: Do something fun after seeing Nick and Norah. Do not go home and start your homework. Don’t pretend that going to IHOP is “doing something fun.” The movie is so packed with activity that it just makes you feel sad and friendless to go home after it. Wait…is this getting too personal?

Anyhow, the best thing about Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist is that it genuinely made me smile. I felt sort of ridiculous sitting in the movie theatre with this goofy grin on my face, but luckily it was pretty dark. I’m just saying, though; there’s something about this movie. Both Nick and Norah are so endearingly awkward and adorable that it simply makes you smile.