Critique: I find that I usually disagree with critics about comedies this year. This film was the highest reviewed comedy of the year by far along with Space Cowboys, both which I gave lukewarm reviews. I however, enjoyed Gun Shy and The Whole Nine Yards thoroughly which got scoffed at by many respected critics. The main reason Meet the Parents didn't quite work for me was because the anxiety and tension of our protaganist was so extreme and his situations so horrid that if we sympathize with him, which I always try to do we feel uncomfortable and don't laugh nearly as much as we are meant to. Some people don't mind the tension, but I think it really crushed the film. I spent so much time being annoyed and frustrated that I only laughed at about half the jokes. The movie is still incredibally cheerful and well meaned so I can't pan it with any right mind, however I will tell you that it wouldn't be a bad idea you wait until video to watch this one if at all.
The acting in this film was pretty good, but I think the director Roach didn't quite know how to help us have a good time, and although had some solid material applied it way too harshly and thus was responsible for the film being difficult to watch. You might think I'm crazy but I'd have to say De Niro's cat stole movie. He was flat out funny even when the going got rough and actually helped smooth out some wrinkles, and allowed us to watch some ridiculously absurd situations with more ease.
The conclusion is totally idiotic and sealed the deal for me in terms of not letting this movie escape with 3 stars. I know comedies aren't necessarily meant to make good ending points, but the screenwriters could have done something much more original.
review by supernothingman
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