The In-Laws | ||||||
This high-concept film has no subtlety at all, constantly drifting into annoying-comedy mode and playing with stereotypes without ever doing anything clever or intriguing. But the script is laced with superb dialog that keeps us engaged, especially with a pro like Brooks, who elevates nervous jitters to an art! (Although his escalating misery makes the film hard to truly enjoy.) Meanwhile Douglas is surprisingly slick and witty, and Bergin has a terrific scene-stealing role as his bitter and twisted ex-wife. Even though director Fleming (Dick) takes every scene a step too far, he just about keeps things watchable by centring on a solid cast who are able to juggle cornball comedy with high-energy action (cue another dodgy blue-screen shot!). For a mindless comedy, it's not too bad. But there's so much more in the premise that it almost makes you angry the filmmakers just threw it all away.
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dir Andrew Fleming scr Nat Mauldin, Ed Solomon with Michael Douglas, Albert Brooks, Robin Tunney, David Suchet, Candice Bergen, Ryan Reynolds Lindsay Sloane, Maria Ricossa, Emmy Laybourne, Russell Andrews, Eric Fink, Cara Pifko release US 23.May.03; UK 11.Jul.03 Warners 03/US 1h37 Search me: Douglas and Brooks arrive at the arms dealer's lair. | |||||
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