“Competition between the maid of honor and a bridesmaid, over who is the bride’s best friend, threatens to upend the life of an out-of-work pastry chef.” – IMDB
I know, I know, I know! It was completely by accident that I allowed ten years to pass without watching this comedy classic. I knew the story, its highlights, that I needed to watch it, but time just kept moving forward and I kept forgetting to take the time. So much time passed that I was nervous maybe it wouldn’t live up to the expectations I had developed for it (or that it would be more similar to the recent Barb and Star, since they were both written by Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo. But I am happy to report back that it was FANTASTIC.
The film follows Annie (Wiig), whose is in the middle of watching her life (career, relationships, finances) spiral out of control, when she finds out her lifelong best friend, Lil (Rudolph), is engaged. Annie is asked to be the maid of honor, but quickly finds that she has major competition in her fellow bridesmaid, Helen (Byrne), who seems to be fixated on becoming Lil’s new best friend. The competition causes Annie to spiral even further and for the wedding planning to go explosively awry.
First off, it is just a joy to watch comedies where you know you are going to be in good hands. This is an all-star lineup of starring and supporting cast who were allowed to just play off of one another and keep raising the comedy bar throughout the film. But, as importantly, it stays true to female friendships and doesn’t allow any of its characters to become too two-dimensional. Even Helen, who you find yourself screaming at along with Annie in certain parts, has reasons for acting the way that she does and has her own insecurities. It’s refreshing to watch a comedy that allows for fully formed female leads, friendships, and silly hijinks.
So now, I am going to go watch Bridesmaids for the second time this week, but don’t judge me…I’m making up for lost time!
Rating: WORTH THE WATCH
If you like this movie, you should also see: The Heat, Booksmart, Miss Congeniality
Streaming: Available to rent or own
With: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne
Directed By: Paul Feig
Let Me Clarify 