'Mother of the Bride' Review: Brooke Shields' rom-com flick is saved by strong performances despite undercooked plot
Contains spoilers for 'Mother of the Bride'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Netflix's newest rom-com film, 'Mother of the Bride', transports viewers to a gorgeous resort in Phuket, Thailand, for an opulent destination wedding replete with hilarious blunders and past baggage.
The film, directed by Mark Waters, is about a successful geneticist named Lana (Brooke Shields), whose life is flipped upside down when her daughter Emma (Miranda Cosgrove) announces a whirlwind engagement and impending wedding.
Lana's life takes a surprising turn when the groom-to-be's father, RJ (Sean Teale), reveals himself to be the guy from Lana's past, Will (Benjamin Bratt), adding stress to the already unstable scenario.
The ensemble cast infuses depth and authenticity into 'Mother of the Bride'
The film's ensemble cast adds depth and realism, making the characters more approachable and intriguing.
Brooke Shields provides a stunning performance as Lana, the bride's mother. Her portrayal of Lana adds warmth and depth to the character, making her the heart and soul of the film.
Her sequences, especially those in which she confronts her past with Will, demonstrate her ability to communicate complicated emotions in a nuanced manner.
Miranda Cosgrove also delivers an outstanding performance as Emma, Lana's daughter, who surprises her mother with the news of her hasty engagement. Cosgrove infuses Emma with youthful vitality and charm, playing her as a motivated young lady with a touch of innocence.
Her loving chemistry with Shields as mother and daughter is evident, but what lets her down is the half-baked character development since the writing lacks substance. It's hard to shake the feeling that her character might have benefited from a more nuanced portrayal that delves into her motives and worries beyond just the joy of the wedding.
As Will, Benjamin Bratt radiates his trademark charm and charisma. Will typically adopts a carefree manner and has a lighthearted conversation, with Shields contributing some of the most funny moments in the movie.
'Mother of the Bride' suffers from outdated clichés and weak subplots
After watching the film, one thing that becomes very evident is how much Robin Bernheim's writing depends on classic clichés and predictable story elements.
Subplots such as Emma's social media influencer profession and the wedding's planned charity theme are presented but not explored further. It seems as if they have fulfilled their purpose and are no longer important, therefore they are abandoned.
The film's fundamental tension, a mother's concerns over her daughter's rushed marriage, seems worn and uninspired.
Though Mark Waters' direction keeps the pace of the movie fast and makes good use of the lovely Thai backdrop, its poor storyline makes it seem like an uncooked dinner with all the right ingredients but fails to deliver due to a lack of fire.
There's no disputing that the film's premise lacks creativity and emotional depth, but Shields and Bratt's fascinating performances lift it.
The magnificent graphics and playful humor make it an appealing choice for those looking for a relaxing retreat. Those anticipating a more interesting and emotionally resonant experience may be disappointed.
'Mother of the Bride' trailer