DVD Reviews

Bride Wars

• Rating:
• Director: Gary Winick
• Starring: Anne Hathaway
• Details: USA / TBC / (TBC)

The extremely marketable pairing of Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson headline this affable, but rarely funny chick-flick about lifelong best friends who go postal on each other's asses, when their dream weddings are booked on the same day in The Plaza. Each wants the other to be bridesmaid, and not miss their respective big days; but when it becomes apparent that neither will budge, the situation escalates into a messy battle-of-wills. This droll set-up should really be a catalyst for all sorts of amusing shenanigans, as it does have the potential for slapstick fun; alas, most of the pranks the two play on each other have already been screened in the trailer. Thus, Instead of awaiting the predestined resolution, you know that there are a couple of scenes still to come, where the twosome are still being downright mean to each other. Predictability isn't the main issue here, though, a lack of amusement and a script that feels built around two stars looking to share equal screentime is. This pushes all of the male characters into the background (which is probably why Winick cast two comatose sorts as the other halves). Bryan Greenberg appears to have the sufficient charisma to carry scenes - but even though you know his character will end up being relevant, he's still given minimal time to make an impact. The girls naturally fare better, but as with most comedies of this ilk, the laughs go to supporting players whose jokes consistently fall flat. Hudson fares best, though, as she has a natural gift for energetic comedy that is rarely utilised. Hathaway is fine, but is stuck with a bland character - which may be certainly be the point, but just doesn't make for entertaining viewing. All of that said, it does have its moments; especially the slightly more serious tone of the final third, which seems to suit Hathaway better. Worth watching for Hudson, Bride Wars will still more than likely appeal only to the hardcore fans of some of her earlier romantic comedies.

Review by Mike Sheridan