The People We Hate at the Wedding Story:-
Claire Scanlon’s film, “The People We Hate at the Wedding,” endeavors to blend various wedding-based farces with a star-studded cast including Kristen Bell, Allison Janney, and Ben Platt. However, the execution falls short of delivering genuine humor, leaving viewers with a narrative that is more quippy than genuinely funny.
Movie Ratings
Release Date | 18 November 2022 |
Language | English |
Genre | Comedy |
Duration | 1h 40min |
Cast | Allison Janney, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, John Macmillan, Kristen Bell, Jorma Taccone, Dustin Milligan, Tony Goldwyn, Ben Platt, Julian Ovenden, Karan Soni, Isaach De Bankolé, Rufus Jones, Lesley Ewen, Jonny Weldon, Rich Keeble, Davina Moon, Emma Davies, Greg Barnett, Lexi Janicek, Alice Brittain, Nathan Wiley, Jaxon Goldenberg, Rob Houchen, April Rock |
Director | Claire Scanlon |
Writer | Wendy Molyneux, Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin |
Cinematography | Oliver Stapleton |
Music | Tom Howe |
Producer | Ashley Fox, Margot Hand |
Production | Amazon Studios, FilmNation Entertainment, Wishmore |
Certificate | 16+ |
In today’s cinematic landscape, the term “romantic comedy” encompasses a wide range of light-hearted entertainments that often prioritize zippy dialogue over genuine romance or humor. “The People We Hate at the Wedding” fits this mold, presenting a story centered around relationships but lacking in genuine comedic moments. Despite the efforts of the cast and crew, the film struggles to strike a balance between risqué humor and genuine wit.
Directed by Claire Scanlon, known for her work on the Netflix film “Set It Up,” the film attempts to infuse energy into the narrative through sitcom-like pacing and stylistic choices. However, the screenplay by Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin and Wendy Molyneux fails to provide the warmth and humor needed to elevate the story. The central characters, portrayed by Bell, Janney, and Platt, come across as largely unlikable, making it difficult for viewers to empathize with them despite their prominent roles.
The film introduces viewers to a trio of characters labeled as the “hated people” of the title. Led by Janney’s outgoing American Donna, the group includes her children Alice (Bell) and Paul (Platt), who harbor resentment towards their half-sister Eloise (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) for her wealth and glamour. As the dysfunctional family navigates the wedding festivities in England, their antics range from drunken outbursts to awkward romantic entanglements, all of which fail to elicit genuine laughs.
Despite the film’s attempts to inject humor into the proceedings, it ultimately falls short of delivering memorable comedic moments. Janney’s character, in particular, is underserved by the narrative, while Platt’s comedic efforts occasionally feel forced. The film’s cluttered array of romantic subplots further detracts from its overall coherence, leaving viewers with a disjointed viewing experience.
In the end, “The People We Hate at the Wedding” may entertain audiences with its zany premise and star-studded cast, but it ultimately fails to deliver the comedic payoff that its setup promises. While there are moments of charm scattered throughout the film, they are overshadowed by its shortcomings in humor and character development. As the credits roll, viewers may find themselves wishing for a more satisfying comedic experience.