Overall Thoughts: Pretty solid update hits most of the correct notes.
At first, you might think Father of the Bride as a remake of a 1991 comedy favorite starring Steve Martin. But, it's actually the third version of the story brought to the big screen, dating back to the 1950 smash hit starring Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett and Elizabeth Taylor. This isn't a remake that hearkens back or pays tribute to its legacy. It takes the same plot and updates it for a new generation (and it's also not a theatrical movie either!).
And for a 2022 generation, the plot still works pretty well. With a fresh, diverse focus, this Father of the Bride brings some solid charm courtesy of a solid cast. Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan are perfectly cast as the parents of the bride, and showcase their characters' personas well. Garcia, in particular, does a great job showing a strong change of heart, including a very moving ending speech. Isabella Merced (formerly Moner) brings some sass and headstrong vibes as younger daughter and maid of honor Cora.
This new version also brings some unique elements here and there. There's a clash on tradition vs. modern-day relevancy. There's a little bit of focus on how different and conflicting some Spanish-speaking cultures can be (with the main family being Cuban and the fiance's family from Mexico). Meanwhile, the southern Florida setting is inviting and fun, with several solid backdrops.
On the downside, the story is predictable at times, as it leads to its predestined happy ending for all involved. However, I also feel like there's a little bit of disrespect shown here by the younger generation (particularly the wedding planner) that's written a little too sympathetically in their direction. Now, to be fair, the older generation gets its jabs as well and has lessons to learn from listening to each other. But, I do feel like more understanding could have been written into these characters a bit. A brief strip club scene goes on a little longer than expected also.
That being said, the film never loses the heart and charm of it's central story. There's plenty of heartfelt family moments. And, in the film's best scene, the family comes together to watch Casablanca the night before the wedding. It works wonderfully as a way to help bring understanding and perspective to each character's journey. And, it leads to an ending that carries a little more emotional heft than you might expect.
In the end, while it has its throwaway and unnecessary elements, this modern Father of the Bride still delivers on charm, style, and heart.
Grade: B
Is this film family-friendly? Father of the Bride is rated PG-13 for "brief suggestive material". The film gets its' rating for a slightly elongated strip club scene including females dressed in skimpy, provocative apparel and attempting to seduce multiple men. The groom does not approve of this bachelor party idea, however. Other than that, there's arguing on whether sleeping outside of marriage is a good idea. A few outfits are tight or low-cut. Someone says, "I need a new toy", and another says, "let's get you laid!". A same-gender relationship is hinted at in two scenes. Being a wedding, alcohol is consumed, and a few cigars are smoked in a couple of scenes as well. Some lying and selfishness. Language includes four s-words, five uses of "h---", two "d---", one "J---s", and at least a dozen uses of "oh my g**". Some characters act a bit disrespectful. In the end, I think this is a decent choice for teens and up, and not really aimed for younger kids.
Grade: B
Is this film family-friendly? Father of the Bride is rated PG-13 for "brief suggestive material". The film gets its' rating for a slightly elongated strip club scene including females dressed in skimpy, provocative apparel and attempting to seduce multiple men. The groom does not approve of this bachelor party idea, however. Other than that, there's arguing on whether sleeping outside of marriage is a good idea. A few outfits are tight or low-cut. Someone says, "I need a new toy", and another says, "let's get you laid!". A same-gender relationship is hinted at in two scenes. Being a wedding, alcohol is consumed, and a few cigars are smoked in a couple of scenes as well. Some lying and selfishness. Language includes four s-words, five uses of "h---", two "d---", one "J---s", and at least a dozen uses of "oh my g**". Some characters act a bit disrespectful. In the end, I think this is a decent choice for teens and up, and not really aimed for younger kids.
