Thankfully, Fool's Gold doesn't live down to its name. Engaging though flimsy, lively though occasionally tone-deaf, it's a movie that thrives on the strength of its affable co-stars and a sense of adventure that provides just enough brio to get audiences through some energy-sapping rough spots.

Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson - whose last movie together, 2003's How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, brought in more than $100 million at the domestic box office - once again get to play mismatched partners. He's deep-sea treasure hunter Ben Finnegan (Finn to his friends), one of those irrepressible free spirits that McConaughey can play in his sleep (and frequently does). She's his soon-to-be ex-wife, Tess, who's far more intelligent and levelheaded and fed up with his irresponsible shenanigans.

Finn even arrives late for his divorce hearing after a run-in with a cash-crazed rapper and his hired thugs. Given the circumstances, it's impressive that he makes the hearing at all. But Finn never gets to talk her out of the divorce, and the two are free to go their separate ways.

Fool's Gold (Warner Bros.) Starring Matthew McConaughey, Kate Hudson. Directed by Andy Tennant. Rated PG-13. Time 112 minutes.